1972 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
