Citroen XM

vs

Citroen GS

France vs France — 1989 vs 1970

Citroen XM (1989)
Citroen GS (1970)
Specifications
XM V6 ExclusiveGS Birotor
Horsepower190 hp107 hp
Torque199 lb-ft100 lb-ft
Engine Size2,946 cc1,990 cc
0-60 mph8.5 sec13.5 sec
Top Speed142 mph109 mph
¼ Mile16.5 sec19.2 sec
Weight3,395 lbs2,425 lbs
Wheelbase2,850 mm2,550 mm
Length4,713 mm4,120 mm
Units Produced333,400847
Value (Excellent)$20,000$120,000
Collectibility6/109/10
Rarity6/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive with the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 107 hp, a 83-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen XM uses a V6 24V displacing 2,946 cc, while the Citroen GS relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel with 1,990 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Citroen GS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 970 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 847 units built, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor is considerably scarcer than the Citroen XM's 333,400 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor commands a significant premium over the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.