1973 Citroen DS vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 40 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 408 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 735 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4913 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2874 mm |
