1968 Citroen DS vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1968 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 132 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 Lotus Esprit 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 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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:
| 1968 Citroen DS | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2440 mm |
