1974 Citroen GS vs. 2009 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 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 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Explorer weights approximately 24 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 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Citroen GS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Citroen GS 2009 Ford Explorer
Make Citroen Ford
Model GS Explorer
Year Released 1974 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1220 cc 4007 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 58 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 87 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.2:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 942 kg 966 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 85 L