1973 Citroen DS vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 36 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | DS | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2620 mm |
