France vs France — 1955 vs 1974
| DS DS 21 Pallas | CX GTi Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 168 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,175 cc | 2,500 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 7.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 3,042 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,900 mm |
| Length | 4,880 mm | 4,770 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,455,746 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,400 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1974 Citroen CX GTi Turbo with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Citroen has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas with the 1974 Citroen CX GTi Turbo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1974 Citroen CX GTi Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 168 hp compared to 109 hp, a 59-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 Citroen CX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbo with 2,500 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Citroen CX GTi Turbo edges ahead at 7.9 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Citroen DS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 286 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.