Bentley Continental S1

vs

Citroen DS

UK vs France — 1955 vs 1955

Bentley Continental S1 (1955)
Citroen DS (1955)
Specifications
Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. MullinerDS DS 23 Pallas
Horsepower178 hp141 hp
Torque260 lb-ft152 lb-ft
Engine Size4,887 cc2,347 cc
0-60 mph13.1 sec12.0 sec
Top Speed118 mph117 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec18.0 sec
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,125 mm
Length5,230 mm4,870 mm
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$95,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1955 Citroën DS DS 23 Pallas answers with quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and France automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner versus 1955 Citroën DS DS 23 Pallas is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 178 hp compared to 141 hp, a 37-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Citroën DS relies on a Inline-4 OHV 8V with 2,347 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Citroën DS DS 23 Pallas edges ahead at 12.0 seconds versus 13.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1955 Citroën DS DS 23 Pallas, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.