France vs France — 1955 vs 1989
| DS DS 21 Pallas | XM V6 Exclusive | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,175 cc | 2,946 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 3,395 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,125 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Length | 4,880 mm | 4,713 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,455,746 | 333,400 |
| Original MSRP | $3,400 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $20,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive 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 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. 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 DS uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,175 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 12.5 seconds. The Citroen DS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 639 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 333,400 units built, the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive is considerably scarcer than the Citroen DS's 1,455,746 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas commands a significant premium over the 1989 Citroen XM V6 Exclusive, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Citroen DS DS 21 Pallas rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.