1971 Citroen DS vs. 2005 Honda NSX
To start off, 2005 Honda NSX is newer by 34 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda NSX (241 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda NSX weights approximately 318 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 2005 Honda NSX 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 2005 Honda NSX. 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, 2005 Honda NSX (285 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2005 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Citroen | Honda |
| Model | DS | NSX |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2630 mm |
