Citroën DS 21 Pallas '70

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

2,175 cc

DriveTrain

FF

Height

1,470 mm

Length

4,870 mm

Weight

1,300 kg

Width

1,800 mm

Max Power

103 BHP / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque

17.0 kgfm / 3,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 329.95

Manufacturer

Citroën

Citroën DS 21 Pallas '70: The Iconic French Luxury Saloon

The Citroën DS 21 Pallas '70 represents the pinnacle of French automotive innovation and luxury during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Launched in 1955, the Citroën DS rewrote the rule book for vehicle design with its futuristic styling by Flaminio Bertoni and advanced engineering. The '21' designation refers to the 2.1-liter engine, which delivered a smooth blend of power and refinement, while the Pallas trim embodied a higher echelon of luxury with upgraded interior materials, chrome detailing, and improved comfort features.

What set the DS 21 Pallas apart was its sophisticated hydropneumatic suspension system, offering an unmatched level of ride comfort and road-holding ability for its era. The self-leveling suspension, power steering, semi-automatic transmission, and disc brakes all contributed to the DS's reputation as one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time. The 1970 model sits at a historic intersection, benefiting from the culmination of Citroën's relentless improvements and innovations throughout the 1960s.

In terms of motorsport history, the Citroën DS—despite its unassuming looks—achieved notable success in rally competitions. The car's advanced suspension allowed it to glide over rough terrain, bringing Citroën victories in events like the Monte Carlo Rally in 1959. While the luxury-focused DS 21 Pallas variant was less likely to be a factory works rally car, it underscores the DS family's overall legacy in combining groundbreaking technology with real-world capability.

Sales-wise, the Citroën DS line—capped by models like the 21 Pallas—was a tremendous success for Citroën, with over 1.4 million units sold by the time production ended in 1975. The DS's impact on design and engineering influenced generations of cars and earned it enduring acclaim as one of the most beautiful and innovative cars ever created. Today, the Citroën DS 21 Pallas '70 is an icon among classic car enthusiasts and remains a testament to France's historic leadership in avant-garde automotive design.