2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1971 Citroen DS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 423 kg more than 1971 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1971 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Cadillac | Citroen |
| Model | STS | DS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3130 mm |
