France vs France — 1955 vs 1970
| DS DS 21 Pallas | GS Birotor | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 107 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 100 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,175 cc | 1,990 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 19.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 2,425 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,880 mm | 4,120 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,455,746 | 847 |
| Original MSRP | $3,400 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas excels in quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas and 1970 Citroen GS Birotor share a manufacturer in Citroen, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Citroen brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas producing 109 hp and the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor delivering 107 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen DS uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,175 cc, while the Citroen GS relies on a Twin-rotor Wankel with 1,990 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas edges ahead at 12.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Citroen GS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 331 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 847 units built, the 1970 Citroen GS Birotor is considerably scarcer than the Citroen DS's 1,455,746 examples.