1973 Citroen GS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 830 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Citroen GS 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model GS E
Year Released 1973 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1015 cc 2597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 55 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 72 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 59 mm 68.2 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 890 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 70 L