Highlights

• A rare Cabriolet version of the Traction Avant, with a documented history spanning nearly 90 years
• Historical file including a letter from Traction Avant historian Olivier Lemesre
• Held by the same family for over 45 years
• Recently serviced in 2026: master cylinder replaced, braking system overhauled, engine oil changed and new battery fitted
• Matching serial numbers confirmed

The appeal

The Citroën Traction Avant Cabriolet is one of the most sought-after variants of one of the most iconic models in motoring history. With its front-wheel drive, monocoque body and elegant open-top silhouette, it was a rare and refined offering from the moment it appeared in the mid-1930s. The surviving examples are now particularly sought after by collectors.

This 1936 example, bearing chassis number 383640, has a particularly well-documented history. Delivered new on 16 January 1936 to Countess Brenans in Besançon, it is believed to have been used during the Second World War before being taken off the road following an accident in 1945. Rediscovered in the early 1970s, it is said to have subsequently undergone a restoration carried out by Gérard Sélérien, a specialist in the Traction Avant. Its history is recorded in the archives of Olivier Lemesre, a renowned historian of the model, and an original letter from him detailing the car’s provenance accompanies the vehicle.

Acquired by the seller’s father at the Barbizon auction in November 1980, this Cabriolet has remained in the same family for over 45 years. Presented in a burgundy livery with black wings and a dark grey imitation leather interior, it notably retains its original Quillery steering wheel. For enthusiasts of classic Citroëns, this example combines a long family history, a documented provenance and a comprehensive archive file.

History and documents

• First registered in France in 1936; chassis number 383640
• Delivered new on 16 January 1936 to Countess Brenans in Besançon
• Reportedly used during the Second World War, before being taken off the road following an accident in 1945
• The bodywork is said to have been replaced with that of an 11 BL during the war
• Rediscovered in the early 1970s, then restored by Gérard Sélérien, a Traction Avant specialist
• Listed in Olivier Lemesre’s archives; an original letter from the historian accompanies the car
• In 1978, it was owned by Pierre Paul Leulier, resident in Les Angles, and took part in several classic car events, including the Escargot d’Or
• Acquired by the seller’s father at the Barbizon auction organised by Maître Jean-Pierre Osenat on 9 November 1980, at which time it was recorded as the fifth registered owner
• Remained in the same family for over 45 years; offered for sale following the death of its owner
• Historical file comprising the original letter from Olivier Lemesre, the catalogue from the 1980 Barbizon auction, the auction purchase receipt, a former French registration certificate, a Belgian registration document and various administrative and historical documents from the period
• Mileage: 80,840 km on the odometer; the odometer is believed to have completed a full rotation or been replaced, with the actual mileage unknown
• French registration: standard vehicle registration certificate
• Matching serial numbers reported
• MOT: not provided; vehicle advertised as exempt

Condition

• Paintwork carried out in the 1990s, showing signs of ageing on the lower parts of the doors as well as a few cracks on the bodywork
• Underbody described by the seller as being in very good condition, with photographs available
• Well-preserved interior, with grey imitation leather upholstery fitted during the restoration
• The original Quillery steering wheel has been retained, showing a few fine cracks which the seller describes as normal given its age

This Traction Avant Cabriolet retains an elegant combination of period colours. Having undergone a classic restoration, it now displays a patina consistent with its age. The underside is described by the seller as clean and sound. Further work might be considered by its next owner, but the car’s current condition would also allow it to be enjoyed as it stands.

The mechanics

• 1,911 cm³ four-cylinder petrol engine
• Three-speed manual gearbox
• Servicing carried out in 2026: replacement of the brake master cylinder, overhaul of the braking system and adjustment of the brakes, engine oil change, full lubrication and fitting of a new battery

The seller states that the engine is running smoothly and that the car is ready to hit the road. He notes that it handles well, whilst pointing out that the steering is firm – a characteristic he says is typical of Traction Avant models from this era. As its name suggests, the Traction Avant is distinguished by its front-wheel drive and also features independent front suspension – remarkable technical innovations for a car designed in the 1930s.

BEFORE YOU BUY