**Please note that these photographs have been supplied by the vendor**
Highlights
Ground breaking front-wheel drive Citroën
Fully restored around 15 years ago
Presents in a stunning condition
The Appeal
The Citroën Traction Avant is a world renowned car that altered the path of the motoring industry forever. Presenting in front-wheel drive form with a monocoque body, the Traction was a pioneer that paved the way for the modern everyday runabout.
This particular car, a 1954 11B was converted to feature a fabric soft top early on in its life. Since then, it has had 3 further owners and spent a long time hidden away. In 2004, it was taken on by its third owner as a restoration project who totally overhauled the car, leaving it in the gorgeous condition in which it presents today.
Combining a beautiful interior specification with eye-catching exterior paint, a strong four-pot engine and an exquisite condition, this car is certainly to die for.front.jpg436.39 KB
In its day, the Citroën Traction Avant was known as a luxury automobile, not only for its revolutionary layout, but for its comfort. Looking at this example’s cabin, one can certainly understand why.
White and blue leather upholstery pairs brilliantly with the outside specification. Grey carpets blend in well with the rest of the car. A large wood steering wheel takes centre stage on what is an attractive body colour dashboard. The whole thing, thanks to its restoration, presents in fantastic condition.
Indeed, the retrimmed seats show little more than a spec of age with no evident marks showing themselves. The dashboard and dials all look gorgeous whilst the carpets are impossibly clean. Chrome details throughout shine well and the leather door cards present just as well as the rest of it all.
With the top down, or up, one is sure to feel at home aboard this premium classic.int.jpg244.22 KB
The Exterior
Stunning Island Blue paint
Presents in convertible body style
Stunning condition throughout
Having covered very little distance since its major restoration in the 2000’s, this 1954 Citroën Traction Avant presents in stunning condition. It is finished in a coat of Island Blue paint (AC 122) that shows very few signs of ageing and pairs well with the black fabric soft top.
Reportedly, the car was converted to convertible form by its second owner. Much like the paint, the fabric roof was replaced during the car’s restoration. It goes up and down without issue according to the vendor. The many chrome fixtures also seem to present well although the vendor does point out that the bumpers could do with a little work.
The elegant Traction bodywork all seems to present well and the white wheels look divine with very few marks. They are fitted with a full set of Michelin tyres that have covered just 3,300km.
Underneath, one will spot a very clean chassis showing minimal corrosion. Here, the keen observer will also spot the areas of reinforcement, put in especially to retain the car’s rigidity following the soft top conversion.back.jpg420.25 KB
The Mechanics
1.9-litre inline-four, 47hp
Fully rebuilt engine
Technical inspection showed no faults
Great car to drive
In its 11B form, the Citroën Traction receives 47hp from a 1.9-litre inline-four engine. Sitting under the bonnet, this longitudinally mounted motor presents in very good shape under the bonnet. Its four-speed manual sends power to the front axle in what was an innovative design for the time.
Between 2004 and 2008, this car underwent an extensive restoration process. Since then, it has covered just 3,000km and has reportedly been very well maintained.
Not only does this mean it looks excellent from the outside, it also reportedly drives very well. The vendor mentions the car provides a very pleasant drive and runs as it should. There is reportedly a very light leak from the engine, but with no worrying noises, nor sounds coming from the car, this should not be of concern.
That is backed up by the recent government technical inspection completed in June of this year. Revealing no advisories, it’s clear that this car is a very healthy model that will provide many more miles in the future.eng.jpg267.67 KB
Summary
Having spent some time locked away, this Citroën Traction Avant was extensively restored in the mid-2000’s. Since then, it has covered very few miles and presents in a wondrous condition. Driving without issue and offering a drop top experience thanks to an early conversion, one is sure to have a smile on their face behind the wheel.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic 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 stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email [email protected]. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
