1973 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen DS would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 289 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 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi 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 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen DS | 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | |
Make | Citroen | Ferrari |
Model | DS | 512 BBi |
Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4942 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 340 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 451 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1499 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1130 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2510 mm |