Description
Citroën Traction 11 BL Découvrable SPOHN - 1937 Chassis n° 380217 French registration This Citroën Traction Avant 11 BL was delivered new on 25 October 1937 (see Conservatoire Citroën certificate) to Mrs V. D. B. in Haute-Marne. At the time, it was a standard black 11 BL.
After the war, her son-in-law, Mr Antonin Castor, who owned a garage, used the car; an officer in General de Lattre de Tassigny's 1st Army, he was posted to Germany, in the French zone, and was billeted by requisition with Mr Josef Eiwanger, director of the Spohn coachworks. At the time, the Spohn coachworks was working for the French Army. Mr Eiwanger asked Mr Castor to build two cars specially for him: this Citroën Traction 11 BL and an Opel Super Six. The bodywork modifications were made by Spohn around 1948-1949, but the convertible system seems to have been made by AEAT. Over the years, Mr Castor made additional modifications, such as a more recent dashboard trim and a complete interior. The styling was strongly influenced by the French bodywork of the period, with prominent aerodynamic wings, rear wheel covers and a rib on the boot. It is possible that the Graham Paige Saoutchik used by Marshal de Lattre de Tassigny during the Liberation was a source of inspiration.
The engine on this car is not the original one, but its foundry number dates from November, suggesting that it was replaced shortly after delivery. The engine has been restarted and overhauled, and it seems to have benefited from a little preparation during this period, perhaps to compensate for the weight of the new body (large carburettor, large aluminium oil sump). The brakes have also been rebuilt, as has a bespoke stainless steel exhaust system!
The next owner will have the choice of embarking on a full restoration, or working on the car's patina (soft top to be redone) to hope to shine in the Preservation Class of any event worthy of the name.
This is your chance to acquire a unique Traction Découvrable, signed by a great name in German bodywork.
