1973 Citroen DS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 29 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 360 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2860 mm |
