1972 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 40 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, 2012 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 273 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 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | DS | IS |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
