France vs USA — 1955 vs 1953
| DS DS 21 Pallas | Caribbean Convertible | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,175 cc | 5,768 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 4,250 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 3,200 mm |
| Length | 4,880 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,455,746 | 2,930 |
| Original MSRP | $3,400 | $5,932 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas against the 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus USA. The 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 310 hp compared to 109 hp, a 201-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 V8 OHV with 5,768 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Citroen DS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1494 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,930 units built, the 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible is considerably scarcer than the Citroen DS's 1,455,746 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible commands a significant premium over the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.