1989 BMW 850 vs. 1961 Citroen DS
To start off, 1989 BMW 850 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen DS would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1961 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Citroen DS weights approximately 25 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 1961 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 850 | DS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
