1973 Citroen DS vs. 2002 Noble M12
To start off, 2002 Noble M12 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 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen DS weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 Noble M12.
Because 2002 Noble M12 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 Noble M12. 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 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 2002 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Noble |
| Model | DS | M12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2440 mm |
