1974 Citroen GS vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 283 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS. 1974 Citroen GS has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Citroen GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Citroen GS 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model GS C
Year Released 1974 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1220 cc 2148 cc
Horse Power 58 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 87 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65.6 mm 88.3 mm
Top Speed 148 km/hour 229 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 942 kg 1225 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 1450 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 66 L