1974 Citroen GS vs. 2008 Smart ForTwo

To start off, 2008 Smart ForTwo is newer by 34 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 1,222 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Citroen GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Smart ForTwo (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS.

Because 2008 Smart ForTwo 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 2008 Smart ForTwo. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Smart ForTwo (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (88 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS. 2008 Smart ForTwo 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. 2008 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Citroen GS 2008 Smart ForTwo
Make Citroen Smart
Model GS ForTwo
Year Released 1974 2008
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1222 cc 999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 58 HP 98 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 88 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3500 RPM
Top Speed 151 km/hour 249 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 2730 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 1870 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 52 L