1971 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 41 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 678 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | CLS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2875 mm |
