1973 Citroen DS vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is newer by 18 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (402 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 340 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | C 112 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2710 mm |
