It is an overused word, but the Traction Avant (front wheel-drive) is a true Citroen icon dating back to 1934. Its flowing lines were penned by Flaminio Bertoni, while industrialist André Citroën put every technical innovation into the design, including unitary body construction. Late examples, such as this 1951 example offer all the refinements of 20 years of production while retaining all of the model’s pre-war charm.

Virtually every question that could be asked about the Citroen’s past – especially its full restoration during the Nineties – can be found in the heavy documents cache contained in a large storage box. There is a full photographic record of the comprehensive mechanical rebuild and body restoration contained in several albums. 

No aspect of the renovation is left undocumented. There is even a page (in another file) containing annotated fabric and leather samples for the interior. As well as period Citroen handbooks and paperwork, you will find a further sheaf of older service/replacement invoices as well as hand-written notes on the car’s history.

The Citroen maintains a nice balance of crispness and a few rounded edges. A lot of care has obviously been over the rebuild and the deep gloss black suits the car well. The finish is consistent across all panels and retains a deep shine over the whole car. 

There are no interruptions to the finish in places where the bodywork has been repaired, and the beading between panels/mudguards is tight and tidy. The bodywork is free of ripples, and the gaps between doors, panels and the folding engine covers are narrow and even along both sides. The doors open smoothly and do not sag or creak.

The extensive chrome is a very attractive feature of the car. The big grill, bumpers and headlights maintain a deep shine, showing no signs of pitting or discolouration here. The tall vanes of the radiator grill are straight. There is a little weathering to some of the smaller pieces such as door handles, but nothing that detracts from the overall neatness of the car.

The Traction Avant’s interior manages to retain a beautiful balance between restoration and originality. The deep burgundy leather seats have been expertly trimmed, retaining all the shape and pattern of the originals and now exhibiting the gentle mellowing of a few years equally gentle use. The colour is vibrant without being over glossy and the hides are clean. 

Headlining and carpets are likewise very neat and free of stains with the latter showing a vivid colour. The edges of mats are very neatly trimmed and bound.

The original but revarnished woodwork is a lovely feature of the cabin, showing a warm colour and grain while again remaining gently rounded but very tidy. Instruments and switches are all present and correct.

The steering wheel shows a little more wear with cracks to the finish across the spokes, but still remains in keeping with the ‘classic’ feel. Like the seating, the door panels are very smart with well-defined edges and nicely trimmed pockets, while handles and window winders show a mutes shine with gentle weathering.

The fully rebuilt motor looks (and sounds) to be in fine fettle. The engine and its ancillaries have been allowed to retain a suitably muted lustre, looking business-like rather than showy. Wiring, hoses and ducting appear supple and healthy and quite new. Bakelite/plastic assemblies appear very robust, while screws and nuts don’t look like they would take issue with a spanner. There are no signs of leaks, nor areas of accumulated dirt. 

The underside of the car looks to be very robust – and clean, save for the dust of a few summer drives. Oversized suspension, steering and brake assemblies (and those new-looking Michelin tyres) look to be strong and in excellent shape as does the drive shaft and smaller linkages and levers. There looks to be a good degree of undersealing, and the whole ‘undercarriage’ inspires confidence.

Classic Citroens have great poise and charm – and they’re fun to drive too. This one has been in the care for proper enthusiasts for a good deal of its life, and, coupled to that, it has been carefully restored and thoroughly sorted for real world use. It is equally ready for the (next year’s) show scene or some stylish touring.

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*