1972 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 225 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SLK |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2431 mm |