France vs France — 1955 vs 1993
| DS 23 Pallas | Xantia Activa | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,347 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 134 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,020 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,740 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,440 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1993 Citroen Xantia Activa emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas counters with its unique character, 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.
The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas and 1993 Citroen Xantia Activa 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. The 1993 Citroen Xantia Activa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 130 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Citroen DS uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 2,347 cc, while the Citroen Xantia relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1993 Citroen Xantia Activa edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas commands a significant premium over the 1993 Citroen Xantia Activa, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.