1997 BMW 850 vs. 1961 Citroen DS
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 36 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 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1961 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1961 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 1961 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 850 | DS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3130 mm |
