1972 Citroen DS vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 is newer by 11 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. (88 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 124 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 190 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2670 mm |
