Recent mechanical and structural restoration of 50,000 euros over two years
Part of a small collection of classic cars
Unmodified car to factory specification
Later 11CV engine improves ergonomics
The plus
It took a trip to America to give André Citroën the spark that gave birth to the Traction Avant. In the Budd Corporation's unibody design, he found the weapon he needed to beat rivals Renault and Peugeot. Combined with some typically Citroën innovations such as front-wheel drive (FWD) and hydraulic brakes, it did just that.
The car evolved rapidly, gaining in power and body styles. The 1911cc 11CV was introduced in November 1934 with a choice of standard 'BL' and long wheelbases.
The roadster had been introduced earlier that year, a complete convertible with a retractable and concealable rear seat. When the 11CV arrived, it evolved with the new engine on the BL chassis. Alongside the saloons, it was an expensive and rather rare purchase - only 552 left the factory in 1937 out of an annual production of 25,149 Traction Avants.
This 1937 11BL roadster is therefore a very rare find. Recently restored over two years, both structurally and in terms of mechanical components and upholstery, it is in good, elegant, ready-to-use condition, and complies with factory specifications. It's simply stunning, with flowing lines that suit the car's characteristically low stance perfectly. These cars rarely come on the market, and this one looks both fun to drive and perfect to add to a collection.CITROEN Traction 11BL cabriolet 38 Julien Grandcollot Large.jpeg522.83 KB
History and Documents
Model 11CV 11BL built in 1937 verified by chassis number
We believe this to be a genuine factory 11BL roadster
Recently released from a small private collection
75,612 km on the Jaeger clock
Acquired by the vendor in 2016 to join a small Citroën collection
Previously stored for 10 years prior to the start of the two-year restoration, costing €50,000
Still stored in a heated and carefully ventilated garage by the vendor
Vehicle with matching numbers as verified by FFVE
The 11CV was homologated in February 1934 and introduced later that year
This is a first year 11CV model with the shorter 11BL chassis
Appears to be a late 1937 11BL as it has the clock inside the speedometer
A feature that was introduced from November 1937 onwards
The chassis number also places this car towards the end of 1937 production
50,000 restoration including:
Overhaul of ignition, electrics and cooling system
Reconstruction of the front and rear suspension
Restoration of the bodywork, including removal of all corrosion
Restored and repainted in blue, the paint is in good condition with a few marks
Well-maintained bodywork with no visible corrosion or damage to report
Elegant roadster lines with original equipment, including retractable and concealable rear seat
Exterior chrome in very good condition with a fine finish
Appreciable period accessories, including Rohri fender guards and exhaust tip
Spare wheel cover at rear of vehicle
Underbody in good condition with no problems to report
Original painted two-tone steel wheels with well-maintained chrome wheel covers
Vintage Michelin tyres fitted in good condition with plenty of tread
Original undamaged lights, including beautiful Marghal elements
Reworked interior and new soft top since 2016
High quality tan folding top in very good condition showing good fit and structure
Front and rear bench seats in grey vinyl with white piping, both in good condition
Original dashboard with late 1937 Jaeger speedometer and gear lever finish
Grey carpet with piping in good condition
Sub-dial below dashboard, otherwise standard interior
Original black three-spoke steering wheel
Veneer on dashboard and top of doors slightly faded but very presentable
The technological magnificence of the Traction Avant is just the starting point for this exquisite roadster. The transformation into a low, elegant four-seater convertible is an incredible achievement that maximises the low stance afforded by the ingenious unibody construction. This is an undeniably beautiful and distinctive car.
It is also in very good condition, the blue paintwork probably being a later addition but in good condition. There are a few light scratches and marks, and some areas of sagging paintwork, but they are not unsightly and do not detract from anything. The bodywork is very solid, with no visible corrosion on the panels or underside.
The car sits on original painted steel wheels and retains its well-maintained chrome and accessories, including the beautiful Marghal lights. Inside, the story continues with a very original cabin that has been well trimmed in subtle grey. It remains in very good condition.CITROEN Traction 11BL cabriolet 155 Julien Grandcollot Large.jpeg358.66 KB
The Mechanics
1,911 cc Citroën 11CV engine
3-speed manual gearbox with column shifter
Hydraulic brakes
Rack and pinion steering as on post-1936 cars
Radiator in good condition
Mechanical overhaul as detailed above
All electrical systems reported to work correctly
Seller reports that the car starts easily and runs smoothly
He also reports that it has a good gearshift
The Traction Avant quickly arrived on the market. Clearly a technological advance on what had gone before and on its competitors, the rush required some development. By 1934, the car had gained a 1,911cc four-cylinder engine that greatly improved performance and drivability.
Two years later, rack-and-pinion steering helped maximise the potential of its agile front-wheel-drive layout. This car benefits from both these innovations. It appears to be a matching numbers car and photographs of the engine area reveal a well maintained car with a recent modern radiator and alternator conversion. We have no reports of mechanical problems with this characterful car.
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights under EU consumer protection legislation do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is where is" basis and without warranty. A full vehicle inspection prior to purchase is strongly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final Auction or Bid price, as specified in the advert.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic can refer you to a third-party transport company. For more details, please email [email protected]. Prices start at €150 + VAT within the same country or €400 + VAT for cross-border journeys.
