1973 Citroen GS vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen GS would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (107 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 455 kg more than 1973 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen GS | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GS | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2950 mm |
