2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 Citroen DS
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1972 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | 159 | DS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
