1972 Citroen DS vs. 1970 Datsun 1200
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 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 45 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 577 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1970 Datsun 1200 | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | DS | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 39 L |
