• Completely restored by 2CV City using original parts
• Presented in 'factory' condition
The Background
Citroen AZU stands for (A) a well known type of Citroen, 2CV (Z) 425cc engine, replacing the smaller 375cc unit, (U) “utilitaire” commercial vehicle.
Being the very first delivery van with front wheel drive, it rapidly reached the status of cult car, thanks to its direct links with the Citroen 2CV.
It was a mass-produced minivan that was economical on fuel, practical, robust, and easy to maintain. One special characteristic was its suspension designed to transport eggs across a freshly ploughed field without breakage.
Another innovation included from the beginning of production was Michelin’s new radial tire.
First registered on 01.01.1959 (as from V5), this vehicle was imported from France in 2014 by its only keeper in the UK and has been completely restored using traditional methods by renowned Citroen experts 2CV City about 4 years ago.
Since its restoration, this piece of history was stored in a heated and dehumidified container, with the current owner covering only around 200 miles since work was completed.
This vehicle comes with current V5 document, all restoration documents including photos with the state it was when imported, and other bills from the works carried on it. What a transformation!
In the spartan but charming cabin, this vehicle retains its wonderful period details, including the minimalist Bakelite two-spoke steering wheel, a speedometer with odometer and a battery voltage meter. The seats were faithfully reupholstered and for extra safety, 2 point seatbelts have been fitted.
The classic gear change mechanism pattern is clearly displayed with the four forward gears; the S marking standing for ‘surmultiplée', French for 'overdrive'.
The original instruments are clear showing only minor marks, and everything else was restored and resprayed. The restoration was very much focused on keeping all of its original charm - truly a 'sympathetic' restoration and despite its 'box fresh' appearance, there is no denying it's quirky French character.
This vehicle was taken back to bare metal, and any repairs needed were done with traditional bodywork methods.
Only original parts were used in the restoration process, and while keeping the original instruments, the engine and gearbox, the AZU was fitted with all new suspension and brakes. Underneath, the chassis looks like new. The wheels are fitted with period correct Michelin tyres.
The vendor states that this vehicle is presented exactly as when it left the factory in terms of specifications. It was resprayed all over in French Grey colour, a factory correct colour for 1959.
The AZU's simple, frugal, rugged and tiny 425cc 2 cylinder engine starts eagerly and runs well, providing all of its mighty 12bhp at 3500rpm.
The restoration work carried on under the bonnet, with the engine receiving the same care and attention as the rest of the car. Everything is beautifully presented and factory correct.
The vendor reports that the little van drives well and goes through the gears without issue, with the now infamous suspension setup soaking up the bumps well.UnOhphYMUq1Px4B3FY7aYFnZidgwkmQihMcAlRwD.jpeg2.5 MB
The Appeal
This Citroen 2CV AZU minivan is an iconic classic, which benefits from a recent restoration, yet still retains all its original features. Restored by a professional company using traditional methods, the vehicle is beautifully presented with a character and charm that simply can't be matched.
It is ready to be used as practical transport if desired, a delightful addition to any collection of historic Citroens or other French motor cars or even a retro catering van.
Whatever purpose the lucky new owner sees fit for this charming little van, we can guarantee they will have a permanent smile whilst using it. If you've made it this far, then it's probably won over your heart already. It's won over ours too.
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