1971 Citroen GS vs. 1963 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1971 Citroen GS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,680 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Opel Rekord (59 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1971 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Opel Rekord weights approximately 80 kg more than 1971 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Opel Rekord 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 1963 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Citroen GS, 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, 1963 Opel Rekord (122 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1963 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen GS | 1963 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | GS | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1015 cc | 1680 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
