2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1966 Citroen DS
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,175 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1966 Citroen DS. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1966 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Citroen DS weights approximately 980 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Citroen DS. (177 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1966 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | 7 | DS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3140 mm |
