1971 Citroen GS vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen GS would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 725 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen GS | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GS | 280 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1015 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 95 L |
