1972 Citroen DS vs. 1952 Ferrari 212
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,561 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 212 (163 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 212 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 397 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 212.
Because 1952 Ferrari 212 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 1952 Ferrari 212. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1952 Ferrari 212 | |
| Make | Citroen | Ferrari |
| Model | DS | 212 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2561 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 58.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 159 L |
