1971 Citroen DS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 37 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), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 733 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Citroen DS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | E |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| 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 | 5600 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 - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2860 mm |
