In 1980, Chevrolet introduced the Citation as a front-wheel drive compact car with good fuel economy and solid footing in rain and snow. Notably, the lineup included the X-11, a sportier variant equipped with a V-6, four-speed manual that appealed to younger buyers. A shining 1985 example - opens in new window or tab. was just sold on eBay.
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The X-11 stood apart based on a stream of ongoing revisions.
- In 1980, its first year, the X-11 featured a revised transmission and axle ratio, as well as front and rear stabilizer bars.
- The following year brought a functional cowl-induction hood scoop along with rear spoiler, body skirting, sport mirrors, and a model-specific dashboard. And 14-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires replaced 13-inch steel rally rims.
- Those enhancements carried through 1985, the X-11's final year, represented by the car scooped up on eBay.
The X-11’s Racing Pedigree
While the other Citation variants were praised and then panned, the Citation X-11 was busy at the track—taking SCCA Showroom Stock B championships in both 1982 and 1984.
A caption about the spoiler and other sporty features?
The 1985 Citation II X-11 has a one-year-only 2.8L injected V-6. In 2003, the previous owner of the example on eBay converted the car to a 4-speed Muncie transmission before participating in the 2003 Car & Driver One Lap of America.
Tom Van Kirk, the Ohio-based current owner, purchased the car in 2004. He drove it a few thousand miles before starting a thorough restoration. Philadelphia’s Recon Automotive Remanufacturers did a complete engine overhaul in 2006. Van Kirk said:
I would trust this car to drive it coast to coast today. I drove it over 2,000 miles this summer and it has not failed me once. It’s like a better-than-new 1985 X-11.
Restoring the Citation X-11 and Its Reputation
The manual 4-speed has all new synchros, bearings, seals, and wear items. Van Kirk estimates that the car now has about 150 horsepower, with acceleration to 60 mph at about eight seconds. That’s not bad for a car that originally came with 130 ponies and delivered zero-to-60 performance at about nine seconds.
More than that, this Citation’s custom exhaust now delivers a throaty rumble thanks to two-and-a-quarter inch Mandrel bent pipes - opens in new window or tab..
Other engine modifications include a Pontiac Fiero air filter system with K&N element, port-matched intake gaskets, all new electronics, and high-performance Accel injector nozzles.
The Foundation for Bigger Boosts of Power
The 1985 Citation II X-11’s Torch Red paint still shines, although with a few scratches. The factory grey interior with red stitched bead trim looks close to how it was in its early years.
The Citation’s accessories are in good working condition. The list includes factory air conditioning and a CD sound system updated with Bluetooth (although the factory Delco unit is still with the car).
The model introduced as a smaller and more fuel efficient option—and to replace the Nova—gets its share of criticism - opens in new window or tab.. But thanks to the X-11 variant, its persona has evolved in the past three decades.
What is often overlooked is the X-11’s potential as an emerging classic hotrod with racing credentials. The X-11 sold on eBay already sports a recalibrated engine, performance suspension and steering, and sharp mid-1980s looks and graphics. Moreover, Chevrolet made more than 1.6 million of them with an abundant supply of available Citation parts - opens in new window or tab..
That makes the Citation II X-11 a solid foundation for more modification, personalization, and enhanced performance to today’s higher-horsepower standards.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.