Highlights

Commercial version particularly spacious
Largely faithful to original specification
Current ownership for approximately 12 years
Matching serial numbers
Modern dynamo installed; original dynamo supplied with the car

The Appeal

The Citroën Traction Avant is one of the most important automobiles of the 20th century. It notably shaped automotive history through its front-wheel drive, monocoque bodywork and hydraulic braking system on a production car. The Commercial version, with its extended rear section and generous interior, ranks among the most practical and versatile variants in the range. Today it represents a particularly rare version.

This 1955 example has been in the hands of its current owner since 2013 and is reported to be in good working order. According to the seller, the engine runs regularly and quietly and reaches normal temperatures on the road. Presented in black with a grey interior, the car is said to have bodywork and cabin in good condition. The paint was refreshed before acquisition by the current owner. The Traction is moreover largely faithful to its original configuration, notably retaining its dashboard, interior fittings and storage pockets.

Maintenance has been carried out by the owners over recent years, with several mechanical interventions detailed below. Registered in France as a classic vehicle, this Traction Commercial could suit historic rallies, long-distance touring or weddings equally well, an area where its spacious rear cabin is a genuine asset.

Key Information

Mileage: 91,365 km on the clock
Country of registration: France
MOT: Exempt due to classic vehicle status
Mechanicals: 1,911 cc petrol engine, three-speed manual gearbox
Documentation: Owner's manual and registration certificate

The Details

New battery
Starter motor replaced, original unit being defunct
Engine sump replaced due to leaks
Left front wheel bearing and key replaced
Underside treated with Blackson
Fire extinguisher installed in boot
Bodywork judged in very good condition by the seller, with few imperfections
Paint refreshed before acquisition by current owner and remained in good condition since
Front seats and rear bench described by seller as being in good condition and comfortable
Headlining in good condition, with two small holes on one side
Boot lock defective, but present
Speedometer reading 40 km/h at standstill; recalibration required, with cable replacement
Gearbox functioning correctly according to seller, although first gear must be held in at start
Hydraulic braking; brake shoes described as being in very good condition
Steering reported as having no play
Front and rear axles described as being in good condition
Always parked in a closed garage
According to the seller, the car can reach 110 km/h on motorway, with an ideal cruising speed of around 80 km/h

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful winner of the auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for indicative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just as you do, and that's why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed for sale on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also verify whether vehicles are registered as written off as a result of a total loss claim at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide write-off category tags (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. The presence or absence of a tag does not, however, guarantee the vehicle's status and it is always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.