1972 Citroen DS vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 532 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Citroen DS (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen DS | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | DS | Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2347 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 64 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2410 mm |