1973 Citroen DS vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen DS | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SL |
Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2520 mm |