Lot n° 58
Estimation :
27000 - 35000
CHF
CITROEN DS - Lot 58
CITROEN DS
In the early 50s, Citroën began work on a revolutionary car to replace its aging front-wheel-drive model, which was already 20 years old. Presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 1955, it was unlike anything we had ever seen before.
First and foremost, its lines were designed by Flaminio Bertoni, who had already created the Traction and 2 CV. Highly aerodynamic, it looks like a flying saucer among the other very classically shaped competitors.
Its futuristic interior and single-spoke steering wheel are astonishing. What's more, it features a totally new technical innovation: its hydraulic suspension. Equipped with fluid-filled spheres, the suspension smoothes out unevenness on the road, providing exceptional roadholding in all weathers.
Steering, braking and gearbox are also controlled by this hydraulic system.
Its success was immediate, and countless orders were received during the show.
To satisfy traditional customers and appeal to fans of front-wheel drive, production of which ceased in 1957, the company launched a simplified version: the ID 19.
The gearbox, steering and braking were no longer hydraulically controlled; only the suspension remained so. The finish is simplified and the engine is less powerful.
At the same time, estate, station wagon and commercial models were marketed with a lengthened body. The last version to be offered was the cabriolet, originally designed by coachbuilder Chapron.
Each year brought its share of technical evolutions, with more powerful engines, then increases in cubic capacity to 2.1 liters, then 2.3 liters, and finally the switch to electronic fuel injection.
The only real aesthetic change came at the end of 1967. The front of the car was modified by the adoption of 4 square headlight lenses. In addition, the 2 central lights became directional.
Production of the DS ceased in 1975, with over 1.450 million units sold, all versions included. It was replaced by the "CX".
For the record, despite its large size and moderately powerful engines, the DS proved to be a formidable sports car in difficult conditions. It shone in
London-Sydney (11,200 kms) in 1968. It also won the Monte Carlo Rally twice, in 1959 and 1966.
The model presented is a 1967 DS 21 Pallas with hydraulic gearbox, the last model before the restyling.
The body is in palladium gray, with black leather interior.
And 125,200km on the odometer.
It was bought and serviced from Citroën specialist José DULA, where it underwent extensive mechanical work, including engine, transmission and brakes (total overhaul in 2016).
A wonderful opportunity to celebrate the model's 70th anniversary with this iconic car!
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