1959 Citroen Azu ‘Fourgonnette’ Van (LHD)
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HIGHLIGHTS
- £14,000 Restoration in 2016/17
- Original chassis, engine and gearbox
- Extremely low mileage since being in the UK
- Business vehicle opportunity
THE APPEAL
The Citroen 2CV (Deux Chevaux) was designed to be the economical and practical hero of rural France with it’s underlying simplicity, front wheel drive and ingenious suspension.
Introduced in 1950, the AZU light commercial version (A for 2CV, Z for 425cc engine, U for “Utilitaire”) was no exception and continues the practical and affordable theme. The “tin snail” was a familiar sight for many years and was used by the French Post Office.
This desirable Citroen 2CV AZU benefits from a professional and factory-correct restoration and still retains it’s original charm and features.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- French built example
- Import and UK registration documentation
- Restored by 2CV City, Bradford
This particular 2CV AZU ‘Fourgonnette’ was first registered in France in January 1959 and a letter from The Deux Chevaux Club of Great Britain, in late 2012, confirms that the chassis number and mechanical specification denotes it as a commercial vehicle (see photo of letter).
Imported from France and registered in the UK on the 1st February 2014, this van initially resided in Northampton and was then sold in 2016 to the second UK owner who commissioned 2CV City, Bradford to carry out the restoration. Although we don’t have any supporting paperwork, it is clear that it was completed to a high standard.
The current owner subsequently purchased it from a Car and Classic Online Auction in September 2021 and has enjoyed ‘running around’ in it since, but a change in circumstances means the little van is no longer needed for the purpose it was purchased for.
The car has not been MOT’d in the UK and the exempt tax has been renewed and runs until the 1st September 2022. Accompanying paperwork includes:
- Up to date V5
- Photos prior to restoration
- NOVA import paperwork
- DVLA Registration documentation
- Number plate Authorisation Certificate
- Servicing invoices
THE INTERIOR
- Excellent condition
- Original instrumentation
- Comfortable bench seat
The restoration was clearly focussed on retaining the originality of the instrumentation, period details and features and definitely adds to the authenticity of this quirky French design. The overall condition of the interior is excellent.
This utilitarian cabin includes the original grey two-spoke steering wheel, the functioning speedometer, with odometer, battery voltage meter, cable and hand operated windscreen wipers.
The classic Citroen gear change pattern has four forward gears with the ’S’ marking standing for ‘Surmultiplee’ or ‘overdrive’.
A ‘posher’ more comfortable bench seat is possibly the only departure from the original ‘minimal’ single seats although two spare individual seat covers are included in the sale. Two-point seat belts have also been added for extra safety.
The load carrying space is pristine and appears unused since being restored.
THE EXTERIOR
- Factory correct French Grey paintwork
- Immaculate condition
- Original trim
Although we don’t have access to the full details of the restoration, it is clear that a lot of time and money has been spent renovating this wonderful French icon - it looks great from every angle.
The simple yet clever corrugated panel design added strength to the thinner weight-saving steel and the ‘suicide' doors enable easy access. The original French Grey paintwork is pretty much unmarked and all the rubber fittings, trim and lights are very good.
Having been dry stored and driven so few miles since it’s restoration, the underside of this AZU is also spotless and well painted and the chassis appears structurally sound.
The five wheels are in excellent shape and are fitted with period-correct Michelin tyres with plenty of tread. A car cover is also included.
THE MECHANICS
- Original mechanical components
- Economical MPG
- Servicing invoices
The same care and attention to originality has been lavished on the engine compartment which houses the wonderfully clean and original, AZU stamped, air-cooled flat-twin, four-stroke 425cc engine. Although the mileage cannot be confirmed, this engine seems to be in good health and had a service just 143 miles ago in October 2021 by Meakins and Son Ltd, Chichester.
A points distributer is in-situ and the owner has recently fitted a new 6-volt battery. The Solex carburettor has been running on Super Unleaded and should offer great MPG, but beware, there is no fuel gauge!.
Get the choke just right, and the peppy little engine easily springs into life. The owner assures us that this endearing van drives well and goes through the gears smoothly. The steering is fine and the infamous suspension soaks up the bumps well. The front inboard drum brakes and rear drums operate as expected.
SUMMARY
This authentic and desirable 2CV AZU ‘Fourgonnette’ is in fantastic condition in all respects and is ready to drive away. It could be an economical and fun run-around or would clearly make a ‘cool’ business vehicle - either way, it should guarantee smiles all the way!.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1959
- Make Citroen
- Model AZU Van
- Colour Grey
- Odometer 16,159 Miles
- Engine size 425
Auction Details
Message C&C Auction Team
- Seller Type Private
- Location Sussex
- Country United Kingdom
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