1971 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 32 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 78 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2410 mm |
