The Citroën 2CV or 'deux chevaux' (two horse) was an utilitarian car produced by the French car maker from 1948 to 1990. It was technologically innovative but uncompromisingly simple and of unconventional looks. Its deceptively simple Bauhaus inspired bodywork belied the sheer quality of its underlying engineering.
It was designed to move the French peasantry on from horses and carts and is considered one of Citroën's most iconic cars. Still popular today they are quirky, fun to drive, and surprisingly practical. With good parts availability they are an excellent route into classic car ownership.
First registered in June 1988, so just two years before production ended, this attractive example has had just four owners in the past 33 years. According to the seller it was purchased from “an old boy” locally in August of this year as a 50th birthday gift for his wife as she had owned one as her first car. She was pleased with it and they have enjoyed driving the Citroen in the late summer months but it has only been used on a few occasions.
Stored in a carport attached to a barn, the seller is concerned that winter may not be kind to the Citroen, so they have decided to sell rather than let the car deteriorate.
The history file is a bit thin as the previous owner didn’t keep any relevant paperwork. There is a current MoT that is valid until 27th September ’22. The seller reports that some areas were repainted after he purchased the car, but no welding or panel replacement was required
Overall he reports the condition as surprisingly good and original, and very usable. That said there is still room for improvement, but nothing that would mean it cannot be driven straight away.
The interior of the 2CV has aged particularly well as is in excellent condition overall. The seats are covered with grey velour, in a diamond pleated pattern that is correct for the Dolly edition. There are 3 point seatbelts in the front, and lap straps for rear passengers. The roof was given a thorough clean in August, and came up remarkably well. It folds back correctly ready for open top motoring.
The boot area is clean and appears free damp or corrosion, and contains the spare wheel, jack etc.
The Dolly, like the Charleston model before it, was offered in a variety of Art Deco style, two tone colour schemes. It was a very successful model with the first three colour combos selling out in early 1985, followed by a second set later that year. By 1986 the colour listed as yellow and red was launched and has become affectionately referred to as “Rhubarb & Custard”.
One of the better colour combinations, various areas of the body on the Citroen have benefitted from recent attention, with some panels being repainted. The finish, as can be seen in the photos, is generally good, with only a few minor blemishes visible on close inspection.
The Citroen is reported to start and run well and is fully roadworthy having covered a mere 43,000 miles from new. The seller says that on the various occasions he and his wife have ventured out, they have had trouble-free and enjoyable journeys, although at more of a relaxed pace with only 602cc to propel them! There is nothing that requires attention prior to hitting the road, as a service was completed in August with few miles driven since.
The 2CV, like the original Mini or MGB, is a motoring legend that needs to be experienced to truly understand the attraction. Most owners will tell you that there is more fun to be had in a 2CV at 40mph than a sports car at 80mph. With such simplicity, and a good supply of original and remanufactured parts they are one of the simplest classics to maintain, and they are as popular now as they ever have been.
Unsurprisingly prices continue to creep upwards, especially for low mileage examples such as this. Here is one just waiting to be enjoyed!
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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.
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1988 Citroen 2CV Dolly
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