1974 Citroen GS vs. 1956 Citroen 2CV
To start off, 1974 Citroen GS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,220 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Citroen GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen GS (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen GS weights approximately 342 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 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, 1974 Citroen GS (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 1974 Citroen GS has automatic transmission and 1956 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1956 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Citroen GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 1956 Citroen 2CV | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | GS | 2CV |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 12 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 24 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 19 L |
