Citroen 2CV

vs

Citroen GS

France vs France — 1948 vs 1970

Citroen 2CV (1948)
Citroen GS (1970)
Specifications
2CV 6GS Birotor
Horsepower29 hp107 hp
Torque29 lb-ft100 lb-ft
Engine Size602 cc1,990 cc
0-60 mph13.5 sec
Top Speed71 mph109 mph
¼ Mile19.2 sec
Weight1,235 lbs2,425 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,550 mm
Length3,830 mm4,120 mm
Units Produced5,114,969847
Original MSRP$1,200
Value (Excellent)$35,000$120,000
Collectibility8/109/10
Rarity3/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1948 Citroen 2CV 6 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1948 Citroen 2CV 6 and 1970 Citroen GS Birotor share a manufacturer in Citroen, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Citroen brand. The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor holds a clear advantage in raw power with 107 hp compared to 29 hp, a 78-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen 2CV uses a Flat-2 Air-Cooled displacing 602 cc, while the Citroen GS relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel with 1,990 cc. The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor claims a higher top speed at 109 mph compared to 71 mph. The Citroen 2CV carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1190 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 847 units built, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor is considerably scarcer than the Citroen 2CV's 5,114,969 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor commands a significant premium over the 1948 Citroen 2CV 6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.