1972 Citroen DS21 EFi Berline Jubilee LHD
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Highlights
- Ultra-rare Jubilee Edition
- Five speed manual column change
- Excellent condition throughout
The Appeal
When automotive designer Flaminio Bertoni and aeronautical engineer Andre Lefebvre collaborated at Citroen on the design of the DS little did they know that the timeless appeal and advanced engineering would place the DS firmly in the number 3 position of the greatest cars of all time according to Classic and Sportscar magazine.
Put simply the DS was so far ahead of the opposition that initially the French buyers were wary of the car that looked unlike anything on the road. With advanced hydro pneumatic suspension, disc brakes, swivelling headlights and advanced aerodynamic styling it was a startling sight then, and still looks as stunning and individual today.
Put simply the DS was so far ahead of the opposition that initially the French buyers were wary of the car that looked unlike anything on the road. With advanced hydro pneumatic suspension, disc brakes, swivelling headlights and advanced aerodynamic styling it was a startling sight then, and still looks as stunning and individual today.
This example is no run-of-the-mill DS but an ultra-rare Jubilee edition.
Built for one year only, the Jubilee Edition was offered to celebrate 15 years of DS production. They were all offered in the luxurious Pallas trim, in Nacre Grey Metallic (AC095) with black roof and red interiors. Imported into the UK in 2018 it’s thought to have had a single French owner from 1973 to time of export to the UK, and 3 further owners this side of the Channel.
It is outstanding condition both inside and out and is said to drive beautifully and smoothly. The seller has used it locally and for longer journeys down to Poole in Dorset, a journey it has completed faultlessly several times. The column change five speed gearbox works well and is said to be easy to use. Once you experience the ride quality of a well sorted DS you will wonder why modern cars are so harsh and uncomfortable!
History and Paperwork
- Sold new in Roubaix, France on 17th January 1972
- Thought to be a single French owner (same name in 1972 Service book and on 1991 CT document)
- Imported into the UK in 2018 from Toulouse
- Only 3 UK owners, copies of old V5c’s on file
- Original Service book with early stamps
- Good history file
- Current MoT valid until 23rd March 2023
- Service and oil change performed March 2022
- Original Carte Grise, import and registration allocation letter from DVLA
- Service Manual, original brochures and magazine road tests
- Two sets of keys
The Interior
- Black leather with red carpets
- Red Jubilee dash
- Excellent condition, everything works
Open the door of the DS, and you will find a well-appointed, functional, clean and stylish interior. Very advanced for its time the DS was loaded with technological marvels which, on this example, are all functioning correctly. The DS starts easily first turn of the key, the height adjustable suspension works to raise or lower the car depending on conditions.
The red carpets are clean and unmarked, even on the sills. The black leather seats show only minor wear, but no holes or tears. In the front there is a removable armrest that wedges between the driver and passenger. When removed the front seats, (or should that be armchairs?) become one bench seat. The DS seats are amongst the most comfortable ever offered and sport the later, larger headrests. In the back the rear seat is immaculate, complete with pull down armrest. The rear window has the oh-so-cool venetian style blind that is a later addition.
The red carpets are clean and unmarked, even on the sills. The black leather seats show only minor wear, but no holes or tears. In the front there is a removable armrest that wedges between the driver and passenger. When removed the front seats, (or should that be armchairs?) become one bench seat. The DS seats are amongst the most comfortable ever offered and sport the later, larger headrests. In the back the rear seat is immaculate, complete with pull down armrest. The rear window has the oh-so-cool venetian style blind that is a later addition.
The dashboard is a major feature in this car. Three major dials ahead of the driver fill the space through the large single spoke steering wheel. On the left there is a gauge devoted to warning lights; in the centre is the speedometer (in kph) with stopping distances (in yellow). The right hand gauge holds the tachometer.
In typical style for the period there are switches and controls spread all around and beneath the dash controlling the heater, air vents and other electrical items. The original radio is still in place above the ashtray and is said to work perfectly. Another important detail to note is the red dash, unique to the Jubilee Edition cars to match the red interior.
In typical style for the period there are switches and controls spread all around and beneath the dash controlling the heater, air vents and other electrical items. The original radio is still in place above the ashtray and is said to work perfectly. Another important detail to note is the red dash, unique to the Jubilee Edition cars to match the red interior.
The headlining is clean and tidy with no stains or marks. All in all the interior of this example is in excellent condition with nothing that requires attention.
The Exterior
- Stylish Nacre Grey Metallic with black roof
- Superb panel fit
- Unmarked glass and lenses
Upon close study the exterior appears to be as good as you could hope to find. We noted two small spots in the paint on the boot lid, also a small area along the edge of the DS21 badge also on the boot. The door handles, particularly on the driver’s side, could do with re-chroming.
Apart from that the exterior is pretty much faultless and quite spectacular in every respect. The panel fit is exemplary and the flanks of the car are free from any knocks or dents.
The chrome parts (apart from the aforementioned handles) are excellent, as are the acres of curved glass.
The chrome parts (apart from the aforementioned handles) are excellent, as are the acres of curved glass.
The wheels are covered with chrome hubcaps that show no dents. The tyres are all Michelins that have a healthy amount of tread remaining, but could be of some age. It was noted as an advisory at the MoT test in February that the driver’s side front tyre has a nick in the sidewall that will eventually need addressing.
We think that overall you would struggle to find a better presented DS that isn’t parked in the Citroen museum!
The Mechanics
- Mechanically sound and drives beautifully
- Serviced less than two months ago
- Lots of work completed to a high standard
Opening the bonnet of the DS reveals a smart and tidy, factory stock engine bay. Up front is the correctly mounted spare wheel with cover and jack. Behind that is the engine itself with stickers and labels all in place. There is small amount of road dirt, but no signs of leaks or drips from either the engine or hydraulic system.
There is also very little surface corrosion of the exposed metal parts. The seller has driven the DS occasionally, mostly in the local area, but further afield a few times. The longest journeys have been down to Dorset and back, and the Citroen performed perfectly on each occasion, wafting the occupants to and fro without a murmur. He describes the driving experience thus: “As smooth as a hovercraft, but with a bit more steering!”
There is also very little surface corrosion of the exposed metal parts. The seller has driven the DS occasionally, mostly in the local area, but further afield a few times. The longest journeys have been down to Dorset and back, and the Citroen performed perfectly on each occasion, wafting the occupants to and fro without a murmur. He describes the driving experience thus: “As smooth as a hovercraft, but with a bit more steering!”
Summary
Whenever a group of classic car enthusiasts discuss the significant cars of the 20th century the Citroen DS will always crop up, and for good reason. They were so ahead of their time, still more comfortable than most modern cars, and just so chic and stylish. Now in a world of dismal SUVs the DS just can’t be beaten for style, looks and head turning ability.
Here we are offering a super rare example in excellent condition, so now would be a good time to find out for yourself what all the fuss is about!
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1972
- Make Citroen
- Model DS 21
- Colour Grey
- Odometer 41,782 Kilometres
- Engine size 2175
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Location Sussex
- Country United Kingdom
53
bids
- an•••• £35,000 26/05/22
- os•••• £34,750 26/05/22
- an•••• £34,500 26/05/22
- os•••• £34,250 26/05/22
- an•••• £34,000 26/05/22
- os•••• £33,750 26/05/22
- os•••• £33,500 26/05/22
- an•••• £33,250 26/05/22
- os•••• £33,000 26/05/22
- an•••• £32,750 26/05/22
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