Beschreibung
Citroen Traction Avant
Upon release in 1934, the claim it was two decades ahead of its time would not be overstating the influence the Traction had on future design. It would become the yardstick for all modern vehicles offering a monocoque shell, independent torsion bar suspension with hydraulic brakes and sleeved pistons. Most importantly it was also the first mass produced front wheel drive car and it’s said investment in the model assisted in Citroen’s bankruptcy late in 1934. Michelin took control and the Traction programme was accelerated with a range of new engines including the 1911cc four cylinder, at the same time production began in the UK at Slough. The examples produced at the factory just west of London differed from French versions with up rated interior trim, electrics and locally sourced parts.
Our example was one of the final Traction chassis to leave Slough in 1955, just prior to its re-tooling in preparation for the new Citroen DS. It’s a (Light Fifteen) that went on to enjoy most its life in New Zealand before residing in Washington State from 2005 and finally returning home in 2017; the milometer shows 43k miles, although this cannot be guaranteed its condition reflects this. This may explain the superb condition the all steel body presents, offering strength and beauty having excelled in Citroen’s early crash tests; these involved driving new cars over a cliff! Classically French, set low with sweeping lines and lack of running boards ensured buyers parted with their cash for the 760k cars built over two decades. During the early 50’s UK built cars were offered in a wider range of colours from the French examples, a choice of metallic finishes, red, green, grey and obviously black.
The interior features the wood dash unique to Slough built examples plus beige bench seats front and rear with matching carpets plus circular dials and Bakelite switchgear. This Traction gets down the road with plenty of ‘gusto’ its dash mounted gear change is a joy to operate; no surprise it was the vehicle of choice for the French Resistance. Under the bonnet offers originality whilst the only sacrifice to modern driving are the discreet additional indicators although the period correct trafficators work perfectly. Understandably the paint finish presents some age blemishes whilst the chrome is in superb condition; a solid example that comes with an MOT until January 2021. Early viewing is recommended for this unique slice of gallic charm, a real head-turner that will make the next custodian very proud.
