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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (98 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 799 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 (800 Nm) has 649 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm). 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 | 1984 cc | 5506 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 800 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 2009 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |