1974 Citroën DS23 Pallas 5-Speed

Description

The 1974 Citroën DS23 Pallas represented the ultimate expression of Citroën’s legendary DS, a model that had stunned the automotive world when it debuted at the 1955 Paris Motor Show with its futuristic styling and groundbreaking engineering.  

Renowned for its self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive layout, and advanced aerodynamics, the DS remained one of the most innovative cars on the road throughout its two-decade production run. 

By 1974, the DS23 Pallas stood near the end of the model’s life cycle and was among the most refined versions ever built. The DS23 — available as a sedan or wagon — introduced a larger 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, available with either carburetion or Bosch fuel injection. The upscale Pallas trim added enhanced sound insulation, luxurious upholstery, deep carpeting, and additional exterior brightwork. 

In addition, the French automobile's inner pair of headlights were mechanically linked to the steering and would turn in the direction of the front wheels, helping illuminate curves at night. The outer headlights remained fixed. 

This example is finished in blue paint with black leather upholstery and gray carpet, and its distinctive single-spoke steering wheel — one of the most recognizable interior features of the Citroën DS — is wrapped in black leather. The car's fuel-injected engine is mated to a column-shifted five-speed manual transmission, and it also features a speedometer (in kilometers per hour), a tachometer, and an AM/FM radio. 

The vehicle has been with its California owner since 2014, and it displays a 2003 French contrôle technique (CT) inspection sticker on its windshield.

This 1974 Citroën DS23 Pallas Sedan is now offered with a clean California title in the owner’s name.  

Highlights

• Finished in blue 

• Black interior with leather upholstery 

• Fuel-injected 2.3L inline-four engine 

• Five-speed manual transmission 

• Front-wheel drive 

Factory Equipment

• Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension 

• Driver-adjustable ride height control 

• Hydraulic power-assisted brakes 

• Front disc brakes 

• Covered aerodynamic headlamps 

• Steering-linked directional inner headlights 

• Pallas luxury interior trim with upgraded seat upholstery, front headrests, padded armrests, and additional sound insulation 

• Single-spoke steering wheel wrapped in black leather 

• AM/FM radio 

Service

The seller states that the hydropneumatic spheres have been replaced.

Known Imperfections

• Cosmetic imperfections and paint flaws include chips, scuffs, and scratches 

• Sprint Classic tires are 13 years old 

• Leather upholstery is worn on driver's seat and door trim 

• Carpet is worn and stained 

• Some rust on underside of hood and rear deck lid 

• Wear in engine compartment  

• Images detailing the condition of the car are presented in the gallery 

Ownership History

The current owner of this 1974 Citroën DS23 Pallas Sedan acquired it in 2014. 

Included Items

• Spare tires 

• 2 ignition keys 

Additional Information

The seller states, "This car is finished in ultra-luxurious Pallas specification — complete with thicker sound insulation, opulent upholstery, and directional headlights that pivot into turns — and pairs with striking aerodynamic sculpture and unmatched French grand-touring refinement. Floating on Citroën’s legendary hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, the DS delivers a magic-carpet ride that modern luxury sedans still struggle to replicate, making this final-era DS23 not merely a collector’s masterpiece, but a transcendent driving experience ahead of its time."