1971 Citroen DS vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 642 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 3090 mm |
