1971 Citroen DS vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 38 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 506 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1618 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 850 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | CL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2890 mm |
