1972 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 126 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | DS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2510 mm |
