Citroen DS

vs

Citroen XM

France vs France — 1955 vs 1989

Citroen DS (1955)
Citroen XM (1989)
Specifications
DS 23 PallasXM V6 Exclusive
Horsepower130 hp190 hp
Torque148 lb-ft199 lb-ft
Engine Size2,347 cc2,946 cc
0-60 mph12.0 sec8.5 sec
Top Speed117 mph142 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec16.5 sec
Weight3,395 lbs
Wheelbase3,125 mm2,850 mm
Length4,870 mm4,713 mm
Units Produced333,400
Value (Excellent)$90,000$20,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity5/106/10
The Verdict

The 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive 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.

Overview

The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas and 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive 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 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 130 hp, a 60-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 XM relies on a V6 24V with 2,946 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive 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 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.