Citroen XM

vs

Citroen ID/DS Break

France vs France — 1989 vs 1955

Citroen XM (1989)
Citroen ID/DS Break (1955)
Specifications
XM V6 ExclusiveID/DS Break Safari Estate
Horsepower190 hp109 hp
Torque199 lb-ft116 lb-ft
Engine Size2,946 cc2,175 cc
0-60 mph8.5 sec13.5 sec
Top Speed142 mph109 mph
¼ Mile16.5 sec19.0 sec
Weight3,395 lbs3,020 lbs
Wheelbase2,850 mm3,125 mm
Length4,713 mm4,870 mm
Units Produced333,40048,160
Value (Excellent)$20,000$80,000
Collectibility6/108/10
Rarity6/107/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1955 Citroen ID/DS Break Safari Estate counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Citroen stable, the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive and 1955 Citroen ID/DS Break Safari Estate represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Citroen badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 109 hp, a 81-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 ID/DS Break relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 2,175 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 ID/DS Break carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 375 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 48,160 units built, the 1955 Citroen ID/DS Break Safari Estate is considerably scarcer than the Citroen XM's 333,400 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Citroen ID/DS Break Safari Estate commands a significant premium over the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Citroen ID/DS Break Safari Estate rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.