Chevrolet Citation
The first front-wheel-drive Chevrolet and a cautionary tale of 1980s GM quality.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.0 s
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$12k
About the Chevrolet Citation
The Chevrolet Citation was a landmark vehicle for General Motors, representing its first major shift toward front-wheel-drive compact cars via the X-body platform. Launched with immense fanfare and winning the 1980 Motor Trend Car of the Year award, it initially broke sales records as a fuel-efficient alternative to traditional American sedans. However, its legacy was quickly tarnished by a series of high-profile safety recalls and quality control issues, particularly regarding its braking system and torque steer. Today, it is remembered as a significant but flawed chapter in automotive history, with few surviving examples remaining in good condition.
Chevrolet Citation specs
The Chevrolet Citation produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.0 seconds and has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | Citation |
| Trim | 2.5 |
| Years | 1979–1985 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $6,700 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,471 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.0 s |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,105 kg (2,436 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 81 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet Citation worth?
A typical Chevrolet Citation is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $12,000 (about £1,100 – £8,900).
Its original price when new was about $6,700.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet Citation rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet Citation is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 17 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet Citation fun facts
- The Citation was the best-selling car in the United States during its debut year in 1980, with over 800,000 units sold.
- The 2.5-litre engine is the famous 'Iron Duke' inline-four, known for its durability and use in everything from the Pontiac Fiero to the Grumman LLV postal jeep.
- Motor Trend later expressed regret for naming the Citation its 1980 Car of the Year due to the car's subsequent reliability and safety problems.