• Open headlight version with desirable green LHM hydraulic fluid
• Matching numbers (chassis, body, engine)
• Comprehensively restored to concours condition 1990-1993
• Restoration bills available
• Registered in the UK

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 strikingly 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.

The project had been initiated in the 1930s by the company's managing director, Pierre-Jules Boulanger, and would be brought to fruition by designers Andre Lefebvre, previously with Voisin and Renault, and Flaminio Bertoni, who had worked on the styling of the pre-war Traction Avant. Part of Boulanger's brief had been that the proposed 'VGD' (Voiture de Grand Diffusion or Mass Market Car) should be capable of affording a comfortable ride over sub-standard rural roads while remaining stable at sustained high speeds on the Autoroutes. The solution to these seemingly incompatible requirements was the famous hydro-pneumatic suspension, suggested by Citroën engineer Paul Mages. 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 recently in top-of-the-range models.

In September 1965 the DS's original 1,911cc, overhead-valve, long-stroke engine – inherited from the Traction Avant - was replaced 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 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. Chapron's first convertibles had been produced independently of Citroën but the factory eventually gave the project its blessing. Built by Chapron, Citroën's own Décapotables were erected on the longer, stronger chassis of the ID Break (Estate). In total, 1,365 usine (factory) convertibles were made with either the DS19 or DS21 engine between 1960 and 1971, while Chapron built a further 389 of his own, the last in 1973.

First registered in 1968, this matching-numbers DS 21 Décapotable has the most desirable hydraulic semi-automatic gearbox. We're advised by the vendor that this DS remained with the first owner until 1988 when it was sold to a Parisian professor of psychology, Mr Ike Benzakein. This car has belonged to only two families since it left the factory before it was purchased by our vendor from the Zoute Sale in 2019.

In 1990, Mr Benzakein commenced a restoration to the highest standard; the chassis, body, engine, transmission, hydraulics, interior, and convertible hood all being restored to 'as new' condition, while the car was repainted in Bleu Antartique, a colour that was available in period. It is believed that during the restoration the front of the car was modified from the twin headlamp configuration to the arguably more attractive single 'Frogeye' version. Today, this DS remains in outstanding condition; fastidiously maintained, it is reported to run and drive superbly. Restoration bills are on file. An eye-catcher at any gathering, this magnificent and rare piece of French motoring history is 'on the button' and ready to be enjoyed. The car is currently registered in the United Kingdom and is being offered with a V5C registration document.


Please note that information on file from Citroën and Chapron separately conflicts as to the year of manufacture and whether it is a 1968 or 1969 car.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within Belgium the reduced rate of Import VAT at 6% will be charged on the hammer price. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered countries rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances with the Bonhams Customs Agents FIBONACCI. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.