1973 Citroen DS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 615 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SL |
Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |