Few cars have altered the automotive landscape as profoundly as the Citroën DS. When introduced at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, its futuristic styling, hydropneumatic suspension, and technical sophistication immediately established it as one of the most advanced production cars in the world. Twenty years later, production came to an end, making the very last examples among the most significant and collectible of the entire DS lineage. This Citroën DS 23 M5 Pallas, first registered on 28 April 1975, belongs to that exclusive final chapter.

About this DS23

This DS 23 Pallas is an exceptionally late-production example, chassis no. FE8819, and is believed to be one of the final DS models manufactured. Production of the DS officially ended in 1975, and only 379 examples were produced during the final model year according to the information supplied with the car. Given its chassis number and registration date, this example is believed to originate from the final production batch.The car was delivered new in Sweden, a market that played a unique role in the final years of DS production. Due to Swedish regulations affecting the introduction of the new Citroën CX with DIRAVI steering, Citroën Sweden continued to request DS production for as long as possible. Consequently, many of the final DS models found their first owners in Sweden, making this car a fascinating piece of Citroën history.Ownership history indicates that the car remained with a single owner from 1983 until 2010. Around fifteen years ago, it underwent a restoration by a Swedish Citroën specialist, after which the following owner continued to improve and refine the car with numerous larger and smaller projects. Extensive history and documentation accompany the vehicle.

Exterior

Finished today in an elegant metallic silver, believed to be either Gris Palladium AC108B or Gris Nacré AC095, combined with a contrasting black roof in Noir AC200, this DS presents exactly as a flagship French luxury car should. The timeless proportions of the DS are perfectly complemented by this sophisticated colour combination, which was selected by the current owner during a repaint carried out approximately five years ago.Paint measurements show variations throughout the body and indicate previous cosmetic work, consistent with the restoration and repaint history. The inspection report notes that the car presents well overall, displaying a charming patina while remaining visually attractive and highly usable. The fiberglass roof prevents paint-depth measurements from being recorded in some areas.

Interior

The interior was retrimmed in black leather during the refurbishment carried out approximately five years ago. The result is both elegant and period-correct, offering the luxurious atmosphere expected from a Pallas specification model.As Citroën's top-of-the-range trim level, the Pallas featured upgraded materials, enhanced sound insulation, and a noticeably more refined cabin environment than standard DS models. The recently renewed leather upholstery complements the exterior colours beautifully and underlines the car's grand touring character.The inspection report notes that the left rear power window is currently stuck halfway up and down, otherwise the cabin presents as a pleasant and usable environment.

Engine

Power comes from Citroën's renowned 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine, the largest engine offered in the DS range and fitted here in desirable DS 23 specification. Combined with Citroën's legendary hydraulic systems and five-speed manual transmission, the DS 23 delivered effortless high-speed touring and exceptional ride comfort that remains impressive even by modern standards.A recent technical inspection recorded excellent and even compression readings across all cylinders, indicating a healthy engine. The report notes that the engine runs slightly warmer than intended due to a faulty thermo switch preventing activation of the electric cooling fan. Minor oil seepage from the engine was also observed, described as being within the normal expectations for a classic car. A leak from the left rear hydraulic piston was identified during inspection.

Service and maintenance

A comprehensive technical inspection was carried out by Kjeld Seidler in August 2026. The report confirms the originality of the chassis number and records an odometer reading of 45,514 km, although the total mileage is documented as unknown. Items noted during the inspection include:

Left rear lamp not functioning.
Left rear electric window requires attention.
Faulty cooling fan thermo switch.
Minor oil seepage from engine.
Rear left hydraulic cylinder leaking.
Rear exhaust mounting broken.
Despite these observations, the inspection generally describes the car as a well-maintained example with a strong-running drivetrain and attractive presentation.

Summary

This Citroën DS 23 M5 Pallas represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the final examples of one of the most important automobiles ever produced. Combining confirmed Swedish provenance, restoration by a marque specialist, extensive historical documentation, a striking silver-over-black specification, and a place among the very last DS models built, it offers both historical significance and outstanding usability.For collectors seeking the ultimate evolution of Citroën's most iconic model, few opportunities are likely to be more compelling than a late-production DS 23 Pallas such as this.The car is accompanied by documentation, historical records, and a recent technical inspection report. We offer shipping within the EU, and our in-house workshop has inspected the vehicle before sale. The car can be viewed by physical or digital appointment in our showroom. Please contact our sales department for additional information or a copy of the technical report.

About Classic Car House

Classic Car House is centrally located in Greater Copenhagen, only 25 km (15 miles) from Copenhagen Airport. We have a wide selection of young-timers, sports and super cars on display, all in very good or excellent condition, varying from affordable classics to rare and valuable collectors items.We will be happy to arrange a viewing or a video call of our cars in stock. Please contact us to book a viewing in advance by phone (+45) 3333 7000 (press 2), or by e-mail [email protected].

Our Sales Team speaks English, German, Danish, Swedish and Norwegian.

Information regarding equipment and accessories are subject to change.
Re-paint is a possible part of the refurbishment process.
Classifieds are subject to change prior to sale, and to potential typing errors.
Part-trades with other classic and sports cars are welcomed.