1974 Citroen GS vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Citroen GS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen GS weights approximately 134 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65.5 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 874 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
