1971 Citroen DS vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 403 kg more than 1971 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 380 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 3080 mm |
