1971 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 33 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 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 168 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 2004 Lotus Esprit 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2430 mm |
