Description
The 1961 Millésime DS19 is extremely rare.
Built in a single year, it’s the only DS with its “ashtray wings”. A chrome grille for the fresh-air intake into the cabin.
The 1961 model has benefited for just the past 2 years from a 12V electrical circuit instead of the early DS’s weak 6V system! On top of that, it now has a proper high-pressure pump, replacing the low-pressure one, along with many other details that make the car far more reliable—especially on longer journeys.
The owner brought us his DS in a sorry state. The rear shelf was being held in place by its trim… So the chassis was restored from A to Z. And we couldn’t stop there! The doors and other components also needed restoration. Then it went on to paintwork to bring it back to its original colour: Larch Green (vert Mélèze). In the meantime, the original interior was restored using the same fabric (reproduced) in a “rust” colour that matched the bodywork shade.
On the first outings, the owner even found the job list for what still needed doing!
Since then, this DS19 has had a fully overhauled engine from A to Z.
The synchro rings and all the gearbox bearings were replaced by the expert.
2 driveshafts and the 2 pivots were fitted with brand-new period parts (!)
The wiring loom behind the dashboard was replaced. The starter and dynamo have been overhauled, the radiator has been fitted with a new core. All hoses were replaced with new items. Electronic ignition 1-2-3, carburettor cleaned, and a new fuel tank and fuel supply.
Hydraulic pump, centrifugal regulator (std. exchange), and all new spheres. Brake calipers were overhauled, the entire brake circuit was flushed, and the hydraulic fluid was replaced.
4 new Michelin X400 tyres.
Nothing has been left to chance! German TÜV inspection (CT) with 0 faults.
The car is on display in Koblenz, Germany—540 km from Paris and 330 km from Strasbourg
