1972 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 492 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | DS | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
