1974 Citroen GS vs. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari

To start off, 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 926 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari has automatic transmission and 1974 Citroen GS has manual transmission. 1974 Citroen GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Citroen GS 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari
Make Citroen Pontiac
Model GS Grand Safari
Year Released 1974 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1220 cc 4942 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 149 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 101.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65.5 mm 76.2 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 874 kg 1800 kg
Vehicle Length 3820 mm 5450 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 2020 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2950 mm