France vs France — 1955 vs 1934
| DS 23 Pallas | Traction Avant 11CV Normale | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 56 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,347 cc | 1,911 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 73 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,249 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,910 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,450 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 759,123 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1934 Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Normale answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas with the 1934 Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Normale highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas holds a clear advantage in raw power with 130 hp compared to 56 hp, a 74-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen DS uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 2,347 cc, while the Citroen Traction Avant relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,911 cc. The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas claims a higher top speed at 117 mph compared to 73 mph. On the collector market, the 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas commands a significant premium over the 1934 Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Normale, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1934 Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Normale rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.