1972 Citroen DS vs. 1956 Ford Prefect
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 2,173 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1956 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 685 kg more than 1956 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Prefect 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 1956 Ford Prefect. 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 | 1956 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | DS | Prefect |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2173 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2220 mm |
