1973 Citroen GS vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 28 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 483 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (107 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 60 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 2001 Volkswagen W12 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 2001 Volkswagen W12. 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen GS | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | W12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | W |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 350 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
