France vs France — 1955 vs 1986
| DS 23 Pallas | AX GTI | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,347 cc | 1,360 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 8.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 1,587 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,290 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 3,530 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1986 Citroen AX GTI emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. The 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas counters with more power, 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 1986 Citroen AX GTI 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 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas holds a clear advantage in raw power with 130 hp compared to 100 hp, a 30-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 AX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,360 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Citroen AX GTI edges ahead at 8.7 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Citroen DS 23 Pallas commands a significant premium over the 1986 Citroen AX GTI, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.