The Citroën DS III 23 Injection, produced between 1972 and 1975, represented a high-performance variant within the iconic DS series. Positioned as a premium offering, the “Injection” model distinguished itself through the adoption of mechanical fuel injection, boosting power output and refining the driving experience. This model sat at the top of the DS range, offering a significant step up in performance compared to the carbureted versions. It was a flagship for Citroën’s advanced engineering, embodying the innovative spirit of the DS line and its continued appeal to discerning drivers. The DS III, part of the larger DS/ID series (internally designated as the DS III), built upon the revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension and power steering systems that had initially defined the DS when it debuted in 1955.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS |
| Generation | DS III |
| Type (Engine) | 23 Injection (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1972 |
| End of production | 1975 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 2500 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M23-627 |
| Engine displacement | 2347 cm3 (143.22 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.5 mm (3.68 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 30 kg (66.14 lbs) |
| Length | 4874 mm (191.89 in.) |
| Width | 1803 mm (70.98 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3125 mm (123.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1316 mm (51.81 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1016 mm (40 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 733 mm (28.86 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Introduction
The Citroën DS III 23 Injection, produced from 1972 to 1975, was a pinnacle of Citroën’s engineering prowess during the final years of the DS model run. It represented a significant upgrade over earlier DS models, primarily through the introduction of Bosch mechanical fuel injection for the 2.3-liter inline-four engine. This injection system, a relatively advanced feature for the time, allowed for increased power, improved fuel efficiency, and smoother operation. The 23 Injection was positioned as the luxury performance variant of the DS, appealing to buyers who desired both comfort and spirited driving. It continued the DS’s legacy of innovation, building upon the groundbreaking hydropneumatic suspension and power steering systems that had revolutionized the automotive industry.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS III 23 Injection was the M23-627 engine, a 2347 cc (143.22 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine. The key differentiator was the Bosch mechanical fuel injection system, replacing the Solex carburetor found in earlier DS 23 models. This system utilized a distributor-type pump and individual injectors for each cylinder, precisely metering fuel delivery based on engine speed and load. The engine featured a compression ratio of 8.75:1 and a two-valve-per-cylinder configuration. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle. The four-speed manual transmission was standard, carefully geared to manage the engine’s increased output. The transmission was known for its robust construction and precise shift feel, complementing the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 23 Injection offered a noticeably more responsive driving experience compared to the carbureted DS 23. The fuel injection system provided improved throttle response and a broader powerband, making the car feel more eager to accelerate. While not a sports car by modern standards, the 23 Injection delivered respectable performance for its era, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.3 seconds and a top speed of 116.82 mph. The hydropneumatic suspension continued to provide an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with remarkable ease. The power steering, another hallmark of the DS, made maneuvering the relatively large sedan effortless. The four-speed manual transmission required a deliberate hand, but offered precise control over the engine’s power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 23 Injection was typically well-equipped, reflecting its position as the top-of-the-line DS model. Standard features included comfortable seating upholstered in high-quality materials, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and power-assisted steering. Optional extras included leather upholstery, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The interior design was typically understated and elegant, emphasizing comfort and functionality. The dashboard layout was characterized by its minimalist design and the prominent use of gauges and controls. The 23 Injection often featured unique badging and trim details to distinguish it from other DS models.
Chassis & Braking
The DS III 23 Injection retained the innovative chassis and suspension design that had defined the DS since its inception. The hydropneumatic suspension system, utilizing self-leveling spheres and a high-pressure hydraulic circuit, provided an unparalleled ride quality. The front suspension employed independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension utilized a trailing arm design. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The hydraulic braking system, integrated with the hydropneumatic suspension, provided effective stopping power. The steering system utilized a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and effortless steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS III 23 Injection was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, comfort, and innovative technology. However, the car’s complexity and relatively high price tag limited its appeal to a niche market. Compared to the carbureted DS 23, the Injection offered a noticeable performance improvement, but at a higher cost. The 23 Injection was also more complex to maintain, requiring specialized knowledge and tools. Fuel economy, while improved over earlier DS models, was still relatively modest by modern standards. The DS faced competition from other luxury sedans of the era, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Jaguar XJ, but offered a unique combination of comfort, innovation, and style.
Legacy
The Citroën DS III 23 Injection remains a highly sought-after classic car today, prized for its unique design, innovative technology, and driving experience. The M23-627 engine, while complex, is generally considered to be a reliable unit when properly maintained. However, the hydropneumatic suspension system requires regular attention and can be expensive to repair. The 23 Injection’s fuel injection system, while advanced for its time, can also be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Despite these potential challenges, the DS III 23 Injection continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, representing a high point in Citroën’s history and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation.
