1972 Citroen DS vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 25 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 72 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 536 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen DS | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | DS | W12 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2347 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 719 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 90.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |