1971 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 151 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | DS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2470 mm |
