1972 Citroen DS vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1973 Datsun Laurel is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 503 kg more than 1972 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Datsun Laurel 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 Datsun Laurel. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | DS | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
