France vs USA — 1955 vs 1953
| DS DS 21 Pallas | Caribbean | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,175 cc | 5,358 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 4,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 3,404 mm |
| Length | 4,880 mm | 5,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,455,746 | 750 |
| Original MSRP | $3,400 | $5,210 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $185,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight to the table, and the 1953 Packard Caribbean answers with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between France and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas versus 1953 Packard Caribbean is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1953 Packard Caribbean holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 109 hp, a 71-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen DS uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,175 cc, while the Packard Caribbean relies on a I8 OHV with 5,358 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas edges ahead at 12.5 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. The Citroen DS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1844 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 750 units built, the 1953 Packard Caribbean is considerably scarcer than the Citroen DS's 1,455,746 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Packard Caribbean commands a significant premium over the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.