1971 Citroen DS vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 127 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | DS | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2650 mm |
