1972 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1981 Volvo 260 is newer by 9 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 98 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 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | DS | 260 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2660 mm |
