1972 Citroën DS20 Super Saloon

Registration no. CAU 863K (see text) Chassis no. 01FD7063

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 other 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 low mileage (the odometer is displaying circa 35,000 miles) DS20 Super was purchased new from Bristol Street Motors, Nottingham by Mr W H Whetton of Nottinghamshire, an enthusiastic member of the Citroën Car Club, who appears to have owned it for many years. As one would hope and expect of such long-term careful ownership, the car comes with a most substantial history file (perusal recommended). This file containing the original owner's manual and guarantee, assorted CCC correspondence, numerous bills, SORN paperwork, marque related literature, and a vast quantity of expired tax discs and MoT certificates dating back to the mid-1970s. Please note, if purchased by a UK buyer this vehicle will need to be re-registered in the UK.