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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 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 82 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 (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 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 1015 cc 4606 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 55 HP 292 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 72 Nm 427 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 890 kg 972 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 85 L