1996 Citroen XM SX Turbo Diesel Classic and Rare SOLD

A stunning Bertone design masterclass, with epic angular wedge styling - a proper "Big Citroën".
Now a rare sight on our roads and likely to become a future classic, like its predecessors the iconic CX and DS.

At a glance:
- 1996 Citroën XM SX
- 2. 1 Turbo Diesel engine and automatic gearbox
- Legendary 'magic carpet' ride
- Service history (16 services - latest in June 2019) handbook pack, radio code etc.
- Exceptionally clean exterior and interior
- MOT until 25th June 2020
- HPI Clear
- Scarce and becoming very collectable

The model:
Launched on 23 May 1989, the XM was the modern iteration of the Big Citroën, a flagship saloon replacement for the CX model. It went on sale in its native France immediately afterwards, and was available in right-hand drive on the UK market from October 1989. Designed in the 1980s by Bertone, (the design group responsible for other angular icons such as the Lamborghini Countach and Muira, Lancia Stratos, and Ferrari 308 GT4) the dart-like design was a development of the BX concept. It was a longer car with a longer, inclined nose, more refined details and with headlamps that were very much slimmer than the norm. Citroën's design chief, Art Blakeslee, explained the appearance of the car, saying "I believe the XM is a modern and dynamic shape, with unique styling elements such as the very long, low hood, the extensive use of glass and the kick-up in the belt line". Citroën designer, Daniel Abramson, explained: "We lowered the belt line to give the shape a stronger image. It is purely a 'design statement' that is not functional and does nothing for the aerodynamics of the vehicle. We wanted a car that looks good from every angle". Abramson is also reported as saying that they "picked three areas to emphasise: 1) A very aggressive look ("Almost sinister"), 2) Lots of glass to create a greenhouse effect, and 3) An aerodynamic accent based on fact (low drag)". Design critic Jonathan Meades described the XM as the last gothic car. In 2013 Car magazine described the XM as one of Bertone's seven "game changer" designs, referring to its "cool" angular design and its "distinctive staggered beltline".

The car featured many advances, most apparently designed to counteract the main criticisms of its predecessor the CX. The least expensive XM was nearly 50% more expensive at the time of launch than the corresponding CX. The CX leaned in corners, so the XM had active electronic management of the suspension; the CX rusted, so the XM had a partially galvanised body shell (many surviving XMs have very little corrosion); the CX was underpowered, so the XM offered the option of a range of more powerful engines. When the estate model joined the line-up, Citroën had a competitor at almost every level with most other similar-sized European cars. Ventilation was markedly more effective in the XM. Rear accommodation in the XM was improved over the CX in both width, legroom and height. In particular the rear passengers were seated higher than those in the front in order to afford a good view, important for a vehicle which would operate in French government service. The XM was intended to compete against prestige vehicles like the Audi 100 and BMW 5 Series. It also competed with cars from mainstream brands including the Ford Scorpio and Opel Omega. Citroën was quoted as saying that the car was supposed to "take what Citroën means and make it acceptable". The car's initial reception was positive. Some six months after its launch, The XM won the prestigious European Car of the Year award for 1990 gaining almost twice as many votes as the second place (the Mercedes-Benz SL) and went on to win a further 14 major awards within a year of its launch.

In mid-1994, the XM was revised. All models were fitted with driver's airbag (signalling the end of the single-spoke steering wheel), seatbelt pre-tensioners, a redesigned dashboard and upper door casings. The suspension was redesigned to reduce roll, pitch and dive. Most noticeable was the adoption of a passive rear-steering system which sharpened the steering without inducing a nervous twitch.
There are a number of visible differences between the first generation (May 1989 – May 1994) and second generation (June 1994 – June 2000) cars:
The most distinctive external differences are that in second generation XMs, the Citroën double-chevron logo was moved to the centre of the grille and became larger. It was located off-centre in the first generation cars. The "XM" badge on the rear had a more stylised font and it was moved to the right of the tailgate. The second generation cars were fitted with a lower rear spoiler on the tailgate, sitting much closer to the top of the boot. The grey/ black panel between the leading edge of the windscreen and the rear edge of the bonnet was colour-coded with the body colour. The original colouring was designed to echo the upward kick in the window line behind the rear door. The door mirrors were modified to improve the view of the passenger side mirror from the driver's seat. Differences to the interior included a more conventional four-spoke steering wheel including an integrated airbag. The driver airbag was standard on most models and countries, regardless of hand-drive configuration. Also, in 1997, front seat-mounted side airbags were added, which were optional or standard depending on model and market. The quality of the interior materials was marginally improved, with the leather and the seating being both softer but more supportive. The upper part of door trim were redesigned to soften the shape.

Other major improvements included better, more reliable electrics and a faster computer system controlling the new Hydractive 2 suspension. In addition, the following changes were made to make the car easier to accept by more mainstream car buyers: As a direct consequence of their high pressure hydraulics, early XM brake pedals had very little, if any, travel. Phase 2 XMs had some sponginess deliberately built into the braking system (by inserting a sleeved spring into the pedal linkage) to make their brakes feel more like those on other cars.

After a run of 11 years, production finally ended in June 2000. By 1998, Citroën had confirmed that it would soon be discontinuing the XM and replacing it with an all-new model. At the Geneva Motor Show in March 1999, it unveiled the C6 Lignage concept car, which was scheduled for launch in 2001. In the event, the XM's successor - the C6 - did not go on sale until late 2005 and was less successful.

The history of this car:
The car was first registered in on the 31st August 1996, with 2 previous keepers. The first keeper owned the car from 1996 to 2008, the second from 2008 to 2016, and the last owner from 2016 to the present. Throughout this time it has been serviced by Citroen main dealers and specialists.

The specification:
This XM is in the iconic colour combination of silver with with anthracite grey velour interior. The silver coachwork really emphasises the design characteristic, with the sculpted lines and body moulding more visible than on the more common darker cars. The XM models were offered with generous specification (for the 90s!) such as; glass sunroof, premium audio system, number code keypad engine immobiliser, adjustable seat height, electric (front) windows,

Availability:
According to online sources, in Q2 of 2019 there were only 4 of these XM SX Turbo Diesel Auto models still taxed on UK roads, making this car increasingly rare and desirable and highly likely to become a future classic in its own right.

Mileage:
This car has covered a sensible 153, 564 miles - and has averaged in the region of 6, 600 miles per year over the last 23 years - but it looks and drives like it has covered only 60k miles. The condition both inside and out are truly exceptional for a 23 year old car.

Service History:
The car has extensive service history, the original book pack with manual, audio guide book, radio code, every MOT to confirm the low mileage, and will have a fresh 12, 000 mile service prior to sale.

On the Road:
These XM models drive exceptionally well which is testament to their clever engineering and advanced design. The car starts swiftly without hesitation with the diesel engine giving a responsive eagerness. The car has a very solid feel and is very engaging to drive, with decent levels of power and torque available. It’s a very pleasing experience driving this car on either short or long journeys. It can be driven sensibly with great comfort, but when pressed into action, the acceleration of this car is surprising considering its size. You'd expect the XM to feel like piloting a hovercraft like the earlier DS and CX, but it disguises its size very well and is far more sharp and responsive to drive than you might imagine. The designers of the XM's suspension obviously had no regard for the laws of physics when developing the famous 'magic carpet' ride quality. The distinct impression is that the car is stationary and the tyres are dragging the road beneath the car like a conveyor belt..!

Engine:
The PSA XUD engine was designed and built by PSA Peugeot and Citroën. It is an indirect injection (IDI) engine and was the predecessor to the HDI range of engines. Upon its release the engine was noted as one of the best diesel engines (for cars and light vans) in the world with its high power output and refinement it made all other diesel engines seem agricultural. It was also particularly light, with a ready-to-run XUD9 weighing 157 kg (346 lb), 15% less than a comparable diesel of the previous generation. The XUD11 was available in two displacements: 2. 1 L (2, 138 cc) — XUD11 A naturally aspirate and the 2. 1 L (2, 088 cc) — XUD11 ATE/ BTE turbocharged version as found in this car. Both were 12-valve SOHC engines with a 92 mm (3. 62 in) stroke. The naturally aspirated XUD11 A was bored to 86 mm (3. 39 in) for a total displacement of 2. 1 L (2, 138 cc), while the turbocharged ATE/ BTE versions were reduced in bore to 85 mm (3. 35 in) for a total of 2. 1 L (2, 088 cc).

It was fitted to the Citroen XM, Peugeot 405 and 605 and was a very well regarded engine, capable of huge mileages if maintained correctly. It starts first turn of the key after glow plug pre-heat, and ticks over smoothly, offering lively acceleration throughout the rev range. It's surprisingly free revving and engaging to drive. The automatic gearbox shifts positively and behaves as it should, benefitting from a recent ATF change at the last service in June 2019.

Condition:
As can be seen from the photographs the car is extremely clean, tidy and well presented for its age. The interior is in excellent condition with no significant wear. The upholstery is in amazing condition for the age of the car, clean and virtually unmarked. The exterior is in exceptionally good condition too, for the age and mileage, and it is clear that this car has been well looked after. It’s always difficult to express in words the condition of any car, and most people have differing opinions about condition, so the best way to get a true impression will be to view this lovely car in person. I’m confident that anybody with realistic expectations will be delighted to own and enjoy this wedge of French automotive history. Mechanically it appears to be excellent having had regular upkeep, servicing and investment over the years. The suspension operates exactly as it should, in all heights and normal/ firm settings, giving you that wonderful magic carpet ride.

Pricing:
These XMs are exceptionally good value now, and look likely to increase in value in years to come as they become a modern classic due to their scarcity. This is a great opportunity to purchase a proper 'Big Citroën' whilst the prices are still extremely reasonable. At £2, 650 it's a car to use and enjoy immediately and also potentially a very wise investment for the future.

Conclusion:
If you're looking for something to stand out from the crowd, a quirky classic, or looking to secure a car which is likely to rise in value - this looks like a good bet. This is very enjoyable car, full of Gallic charm, with sublime ride quality and a wonderful interior, it’s sure to put a smile on your face with every mile. I really love the external condition, immaculate interior and extremely smooth drive of this particular car, and if I had the space I’d be tempted to keep it for myself. I can’t keep all of the cars I deal with, but if I could put just a few into storage to appreciate for the next 10 years, this would be one of them. If you have seen how DS and CX prices have risen dramatically over recent years, the XM looks likely to be the next in line. I've got a real soft spot for this particular car, I can't quite explain it, but it's strangely addictive. I'm quite sure the next owner will feel equally affectionate.

This advert has now been removed through sale or otherwise.
Please see the list below for similar live adverts.

Similar Adverts

For sale a Citroen AX GT of 1989. This car has had only two previous owners and has covered 122.500 proven kilometers (76.000 miles) over these 33 anos. Since I bought the car it has passed through a restoration process over the last year and a half. I have pictures of all the process. The main known common fail ...

122,500
28 Mar 2024
Portugal
Private

The Slough-built Tractions differed not only in name and right-hand drive steering (though some were built with left hand drive for export) but also in terms of finish. Slough Tractions had a 12-volt Lucas electrical system, Smiths instruments, wooden dashboards, Connolly leather interiors, chromed grills and a choice ...

18,071
22 Feb 2024
Wales
Private

Here we have a rare Citroen C3 Pluriel 1.4i Kiwi with only 3 registered keepers and 47000 miles.The last keeper has owned the car since 2011 and there are service stamps at 6683 miles, 11290 miles, 16378 miles, 21192 miles, 25285 miles, 29515 miles, 33261 miles, 36768 miles, 43168 miles, 46290 miles and 47237 miles. The ...

47,000
30 Jan 2024
Lancashire

Very rare vehicle, restored 10 years ago, painted the same as original color. The engine wasn't restored. The car was kept in garage with very limited use. Technical control and registration valid up to February 2025.<br><br>

64,500
6 Mar 2024
North Macedonia
Private
12
Picture of 1990 Citroen BX 16 TZS - For Sale by Auction

13th Apr, 2024 10:00 The April 2024 Auction 1990 Citroen BX 16 TZS No Reserve - Very radical design from the 1990s Registration: H762WWV Chassis: VF7XBXBOO57XB1493 Odometer: 69,000 Transmission: Automatic MOT: January 2025 Fantastic French design Becoming exceptionally rare Lots of history Detailed receipts ...

27 Mar 2024
Cheshire
Premium Dealer (see stock)

1990 Citroen 2CV Special 376 KM from New Chassis No VF7AZKAOOKA372339 Exceptional preserved condition throughout Supplied New by a Citroen dealer in Berkeley square, London Extensively Wax oiled The condition is incredible, the tyres are original. Engine /gearbox and fluids are original from factory The factory ...

376
23 Feb 2024
Wiltshire
Private

At the 1932 Paris Motor Show, Citroën renewed its range by the "8CV", "10CV" and "15CV" which were named "Rosalie". The Citroën Rosalie 10CV 1934 has a 4-cylinder in-line engine of the L-Head design with a displacement of 1,767 cm³ and a power of 36 hp, achieving a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) . Its length is 4.57 ...

158,999
27 Mar 2024
Greece

Citroen DS 20 Pallas, mechanical transmission, year 1974, matching numbers, perfect bodywork-mechanics-interior and chassis, no traces of rust, only 3,800 km from 0. Never been damaged. Outstanding two-tone emerald green/white livery. One of a kind and unobtainable in this condition. Show or ceremonial car. Suitable for ...

3,800
2 Mar 2024
Italy
Private

• Blue metallic, petrol engine, 1360cc, 5 door hatchback, 1996 UK registered, no modifications to the inside or out. • 57,000 miles on clock. • Two owners – 2nd owner from 1997. • Full service history except for one or two services. Service book is available. • Bodywork has patchy areas on the bonnet ...

57,000
24 Mar 2024
London
Private
19
Picture of 1960 CITROEN 2CV BEST AVAILABLE - For Sale

This LHD 1960 Citroën 2CV left the Paris factory on the 6th of July 1960 confirmed in various documents and supported by a letter from the Citroën Car Club (UK). First registered in the UK in December 2012, the car was the recipient of much expenditure around that time and practically a full car’s-worth of parts, ...

500
11 Mar 2024
Buckinghamshire
Premium Dealer (see stock)

1967 Citroen Ami 6 Break Up for sale is my fantastic little Ami which I have spent a fortune to get to this standard! When I bought the car 2 years ago it had been nicely resprayed and has lasted really well with only a couple of blemishes, and the drivers seat had been reupholstered so cosmetically was really nice. Mechanically ...

9,999
9 Mar 2024
Cornwall
Private

This Citroën SM is in very good condition and the car looks beautiful. The front seats, and the carpet in the front footwell, show signs of use and age. The car is equipped with the original Continental Edison radio, which is a very popular option. The hydropneumatic suspension works perfectly, the Maserati V6 engine ...

21,000
26 Mar 2024
Netherlands
Verified Dealer (see stock)

A one off example of a special edition BX. A 19 TGD Meteor, 1 owner from new, immaculate interior with only 36,000 miles form new! The BX design was a break from the past and yet still offered individual styling, hydraulic suspension and lively performance. Positioned to compete in the mass-market, we all remember the ...

36,000
20 Feb 2024
Hertfordshire

Citröen Mehari 1979 for sale in excellent condition, with original soft top. Many new parts: fuel pump, air and oil filter, fan, spark plugs and wiring, coil, electronic ignition...<br><br>

80,000
4 Mar 2024
Spain
Private

I am selling a 1968 Citroen Ds 21 M semi-automatic, engine capacity 2175, horsepower 109. This is a rare model, with the special feature of having the famous wave dashboard with two-tone livery and at the same time the characteristic front bifaro (example produced only a few months between 1967 and 1968). The ...

53,000
28 Mar 2024
Italy
Private

Very nice Citroën DS ambulance in very good, all working condition. Exterior: Paint is in very good condition, chrome bumpers and rack also in good looking condition. Surfboard not included as an original ambulance in France did not come with one :). Interior: Interior is in very good condition. Black leather ...

19,000
24 Mar 2024
Belgium
Verified Dealer (see stock)

Recently we restored this well preserved 2cv. Everything that was average or less was repaired, replaced or overhauled. We installed a new galvanized chassis, 5 new Michelins, new bumpers, rubbers and much more. The body and panels didn't require a lot of attention, but got it where it was needed. The engine and gearbox ...

80,000
24 Mar 2024
Netherlands

This beautiful Blue d’Orient DS with a Gris d’Argent roof is the top model of the DS line, with a 2.3 liter four-cylinder with 141 hp. This DS has been completely restored to top condition and looks virtually new. For years, the Citroën DS was mainly known as ‘the pike’, but enthusiasts now call this unique ...

35,938
23 Mar 2024
Netherlands
32
Picture of 1994 Citroen AX Forte 1.4i – a GT for half the price. - For Sale

You don’t see these very often and this rare, modern classic is in incredible condition. Citroen added the now rare Forte’s to their successful AX range with a 1.1 and the super sporty 1.4i engines. It’s essentially a GT with injection, but not the tuned GTi (single point rather than multipoint). Only available ...

113,000
23 Mar 2024
Cheshire
Premium Verified Dealer (see stock)

We have a 1953 Citroen 11BL for sale. The car has been renovated in 2019. Engine, body, interior is in top condition. There is no need to invest anything in the car at this time just drive and enjoy a ride. The car is located in Slovakia in Bardejov. Inspection is possible at any time.

23 Mar 2024
Suffolk
Verified Dealer (see stock)

Comes from the south of France and has therefore withstood the test of time well, beautifully intact and low on rust. rare car and offers pure nostalgic driving pleasure. The car has a Dutch registration, MOT and road tax free to enjoy a trip back in time.

10,015
23 Mar 2024
Netherlands