1967 Citroën DS21 Cabriolet by Chapron
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Highlights
- Rare cabriolet designed by Henri Chapron
- Fully restored, having stood unused since the ‘70s
- Beautifully presented and ready to drive
The Appeal
The Citroen DS’s place in the automotive pantheon of greats is well and truly secure.
It was so innovative, and its styling was so radically modern that it will always be seen as one of those milestones in the history of the car.
It was so innovative, and its styling was so radically modern that it will always be seen as one of those milestones in the history of the car.
Then we add into the mix Henri Chapron, who took Citroën’s beautiful DS and turned it into a thing of even greater beauty: the cabriolet. These factory convertibles were produced in small numbers and remain highly sought after to this day.
The car offered for sale here has undergone a full restoration to the highest standards, having reportedly been standing unused in a barn since 1977. It has been completed recently by a marque specialist and is now presented in excellent condition.
Throughout the vehicle, the standard of restoration work is clear to see. It is undoubtedly a piece of automotive art, so its new owner will be able to do a service to the community simply by driving this car on the road, bringing unspeakable beauty and grace with it wherever it goes.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in April 1967
- ‘Contrôle Technique’ valid until September 2023
- Fully professionally restored, having not run since 1977
- Authenticity Certificate from the Chapron family (visible in the gallery)
The Interior
- Recently re-trimmed leather
- Removable headrests
- Beautifully presented throughout
- Desirable Jaeger dashboard
Henri Chapron is said to have insisted on only the finest materials for the interiors of his vehicles. For example, he eschewed Citroën’s source of leather, preferring instead to source top quality hides for his cars from Connolly in England.
The finish of this cars interior is truly stunning. All the usual Citroen DS quirks and features are present, such as the single spoke steering wheel, column mounted gearshift, and adjustable ride height selector.
The sought-after Jaeger dashboard is fully stocked with gauges, switches and instruments, giving the driver plenty of information about the vehicle.
The sought-after Jaeger dashboard is fully stocked with gauges, switches and instruments, giving the driver plenty of information about the vehicle.
Interestingly, the windows can be raised and lowered both electrically and manually, and the distinctive cylindrical headrest can be removed to give the car a sweeping profile, which looks simply sublime. Other
Overall, the interior of this cabriolet is beautifully finished, having been fully restored recently. It is a sumptuous place to be, in what is famously the most comfortable car in the world.
The Exterior
- Full bare metal respray
- Strengthened bodywork
The standard Citroen DS is a thing of avant-garde beauty. But this Chapron convertible takes this to a whole new level, with its redesigned rear wings and elongated doors adding to its beauty.
Little details such as the rear indicators, which wrap around to be seen from any angle, are examples of functionality and style intertwined in a way which can seemingly only be achieved by the French.
Little details such as the rear indicators, which wrap around to be seen from any angle, are examples of functionality and style intertwined in a way which can seemingly only be achieved by the French.
During this car's restoration, it is said to have undergone a process of body strengthening with additional reinforcement being added to compensate for its lack of roof (1 mm thick steel instead of the original 0.8). These cabriolets received bolstering in the A-pillars and floorpan, under the seats for example (this too was thickened at restoration). All the necessary welding and preparation was of course professionally completed before the car was treated to a full respray in ‘Flame Red’.
This paint work has remained in fantastic condition, with no scratches, blemishes or marks reported by the vendor. There is reportedly no corrosion present on the car, and the underside looks to be particularly clean and tidy.
As can be seen in the photographs, the car’s ride height can be raised and lowered automatically. This allows a thorough inspection of the underside to be completed. The wheels are said to be in excellent condition and shod with new Michelin tyres.
Looking at this DS is an experience. One must take the time to fully appreciate the car’s beauty: a perfect collaboration between Citroën’s advanced design and Chapron’s stylistic flair.
The Mechanics
- Rebuilt engine, sold with a warranty
- No reported faults or issues
- Refurbished manual gearbox
This DS benefits from its engine being reportedly completely rebuilt.
The vendor who has restored too many DS's to remember, says that it has been run in and tuned and it performs exactly as it should. In fact he is so confident about the car's mechanics that it will be sold with a 1 year engine warranty. The gearbox was also fully rebuilt with different pinions and a longer final-drive ratio for more relaxed cruising. The original 19/21s often feel a bit short geared. Other mechanical improvements include a 2 speed wiper motor and alternator from a 1969 model year. This can of course be changed back.
There are no reported leaks or smoke and the car is said to drive very well.
The vendor who has restored too many DS's to remember, says that it has been run in and tuned and it performs exactly as it should. In fact he is so confident about the car's mechanics that it will be sold with a 1 year engine warranty. The gearbox was also fully rebuilt with different pinions and a longer final-drive ratio for more relaxed cruising. The original 19/21s often feel a bit short geared. Other mechanical improvements include a 2 speed wiper motor and alternator from a 1969 model year. This can of course be changed back.
There are no reported leaks or smoke and the car is said to drive very well.
Of course, the Citroën DS’s famous party piece is its hydropneumatic suspension system, which gives the car its ‘magic carpet’ ride quality. It also allows the car to raise its ride height in order to easily change a spare wheel or pass through difficult terrain.
As shown in the accompanying photographs, this system still works as it should.
Summary
A DS21 is a thing of beauty in its own right, but one which has received Henri Chapron’s legendary treatment is a rare delight, rightfully sought after by connoisseurs the world over.
We are delighted to present this restored example of a DS21 cabriolet, which is in excellent condition and a testament to the craftsmanship of the original creators, as well as its restorers.
The next owner will be able to enjoy sitting back and just looking at desirable automobile, as well as driving it and experiencing its supremely refined ride.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
All items in this listing are sold on an “As Is - Where Is” basis. Photos and listing descriptions should be used as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information in this listing and Car & Classic performs a level of due diligence prior to the auction, we do not warrant the accuracy of the listings. The seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Inspection is highly recommended prior to bidding. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1967
- Make Citroen
- Model DS21 Cabriolet by Chapron
- Colour Red
- Odometer 2,911 Kilometres
- Engine size 2175
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Châtelus le Marcheix
- Country France
25
bids
- bo•••• €162,000 18/09/22
- Gr•••• €161,000 18/09/22
- Gr•••• €160,000 18/09/22
- Ch•••• €159,000 18/09/22
- Gr•••• €158,000 18/09/22
- bo•••• €157,000 18/09/22
- Gr•••• €156,000 18/09/22
- bo•••• €155,000 18/09/22
- Gr•••• €154,000 18/09/22
- bo•••• €153,000 18/09/22
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