If you want something with all the character, soundtrack and amazing ride of a Citroën 2CV but with a little bit more in the way of practicality or civilisation, then an Ami is a good compromise.
The Deux Cheveux’s big brother is a more spacious and sophisticated (if that’s the word) companion and an extremely rare car in the UK, albeit one with a huge amount of entertainment value.
This one was restored in 2020 and to an exceptional standard – it really is in incredible condition and a potential show-winner. b1.jpeg1.76 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT and tax exempt
Will be supplied with new MOT
Recent invoices
The previous owner of the Ami was a Citroën mechanic who owned it for many years but it wasn’t until 2020 that he got around to completing the car’s restoration. He did most of the work himself using parts he’d accrued over many years, so there are no real receipts or invoices for them – but it’s obvious from the car’s condition that this is a high-quality restoration carried out by someone who knew their stuff.
It was acquired by the current owner – its fourth – in 2021. He’s a serial 2CV fan and has owned several. He bought the Ami for his daughter to use, but the simple fact is that she doesn’t get on with the car’s unconventional dogleg column gearshift and has barely used it, making it surplus to requirements. b4.jpeg902.39 KB
THE INTERIOR
Retrimmed with rainbow fabric
New rubber floor
Bespoke load cover
The Ami’s original seats would most likely have been vinyl as this is a basic Ami 8 and not a Super, but they have been retrimmed in a vibrant rainbow fabric that adds a cheerful and different feel to the cabin.
The floor has a black rubber covering that’s also not standard, and a rear load cover has been installed, adapted from a more modern car.
It’s all in fabulous order, though, and the dashboard and single-spoke steering wheel are in great condition.b2.jpeg700.31 KB
THE EXTERIOR
Extensively restored
New floors and sills
Fabulous paint job
Superb underneath
The Ami was a full restoration and has been done to a high standard, with a glorious paint finish.
The shell has been welded where needed, new floors and sills were fitted, the underside fully under-sealed and oil injected into the sills and other cavities to future-proof the car.
The chassis was excellent and un-welded and has been internally oiled. Bodily the car has been completely re-painted and the front quarter window insets have been converted to allow sliding windows, with wind-down main windows. New window channels, LED fog lights and reversing lights have been fitted, along with new old-stock headlamps, refurbished wheels and new Toyo tyres all-round. All of this was done in 2020 and the car still looks utterly fabulous today.b5.jpeg1.47 MB
THE MECHANICS
602cc air-cooled twin
Four-speed manual
New pistons and rings
1-2-3 electronic ignition
Citroën’s air-cooled flat-twin makes an unmistakable sound and adds even more to the vibrant character of the Ami 8.
The engine was partially rebuilt during the restoration, with new pistons and piston rings, a new electronic ignition system, fuel pump, spark plugs and a new clutch to name just a few of the parts replaced. It has also been fitted with modern fuel pipes to avoid any issues caused by using E10 petrol.
It runs brilliantly and the four-speed ‘push-pull’ transmission operates as it should – confusing at first, but it becomes intuitive with patience.
The vendor says the Ami is an absolute joy to drive and there are no faults that he is aware of. b3.jpeg1.22 MB
SUMMARY
There are only a handful of Amis left in the UK and this example has to be one of the best, if not THE best. It’s in incredible restored condition and needs for nothing other than to be shown, enjoyed and looked after for future generations. It’s a terrific car and an absolute credit to its restorer.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
