1973 Citroen DS vs. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1973 Citroen DS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 (177 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1190 kg more than 1973 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 (432 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 500 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 432 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 111 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 3300 mm |
