1971 Citroën DS20 Saloon

Registration no. LRL 193J Chassis no. 4703215

Footnotes

Just as it had done 21 years previously with the revolutionary 'Traction Avant', Citroën stunned the world again in 1955 with the launch of the futuristically styled 'DS'. Beneath the shark-like newcomer's aerodynamically efficient, low-drag bodyshell there was all-independent, self-levelling, hydro-pneumatic suspension; plus power-operated brakes, clutch and steering. No European car would match the DS's ride quality for several years, the fundamental soundness of Citroën's ahead-of-its-time hydro-pneumatic suspension being demonstrated by its survival until very recently in top-of-the-range models. The DS's original 1,911cc, overhead-valve, long-stroke engine was replaced in 1966 by a short-stroke 1,985cc unit, also available in 2,175cc and 2,347cc versions, while other DS developments included swivelling headlights, fuel injection and a five-speed manual gearbox.

Other models offered alongside the original DS were the ID (a simplified, cheaper version), the cavernous Safari estate and the two-door Décapotable (convertible), the latter boasting coachwork by Henri Chapron. Right-hand drive versions were assembled in England at Citroën's Slough factory up 1966, whereupon manufacture of all RHD models reverted to France. By the time production ceased in April 1975, more than 1.3 million of these wonderfully idiosyncratic cars had been built.

This Citroën DS20 was found resting unloved in the corner of a garage in Holland some ten or so years ago. It had been in the ownership of only one family and was included in a deal to purchase a competition car. The car was imported and registered in the UK in 2011.

With lots of help from Citroën Classics of Staines, Middlesex, this DS has been sympathetically restored and used mainly as team transport at the Classic Le Mans. All hydraulic seals to the brakes and suspension have been replaced and a new steering rack fitted. We are advised by the private vendor that the car has a strong 2.0-litre engine and good suspension hydraulics. Retaining a delightful patina of originality, it starts well, runs as it should and is said to be a joy to drive, bringing a smile to the faces of both occupants and onlookers wherever it goes. Offered with a V5C Registration Certificate.