Citroen Type A

vs

Citroen GS

France vs France — 1919 vs 1970

Citroen Type A (1919)
Citroen GS (1970)
Specifications
Type A 10HP TorpedoGS Birotor
Horsepower18 hp107 hp
Torque100 lb-ft
Engine Size1,327 cc1,990 cc
0-60 mph13.5 sec
Top Speed40 mph109 mph
¼ Mile19.2 sec
Weight1,764 lbs2,425 lbs
Wheelbase2,830 mm2,550 mm
Length3,810 mm4,120 mm
Units Produced24,093847
Value (Excellent)$80,000$120,000
Collectibility8/109/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1919 Citroen Type A 10HP Torpedo offers lighter weight, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1919 Citroen Type A 10HP Torpedo with the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1970 Citroen GS Birotor holds a clear advantage in raw power with 107 hp compared to 18 hp, a 89-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen Type A uses a Inline-4 SV displacing 1,327 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 40 mph. The Citroen Type A carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 661 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 847 units built, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor is considerably scarcer than the Citroen Type A's 24,093 examples.