1972 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Lotus Esprit is newer by 31 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, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 33 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 2003 Lotus Esprit 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 2003 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2003 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen DS | 2003 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Citroen | Lotus |
Model | DS | Esprit |
Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2347 cc | 1973 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 294 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1305 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1160 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2430 mm |