1972 Citroen DS vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 683 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 518 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen DS | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SL |
Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2347 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 701 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 92 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 | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |