Designed by Flaminio Bertoni and introduced by André Citroën in 1934, the Citroen Traction Avant is amongst the most innovative of Citroën's repertoire - and with a company so known for pushing the boundaries, that's no small feat. Boasting a pioneering front-wheel-drive system and unitary body construction, the car also made use of the then-new rack-and-pinion steering set up, all packed into a curvy, elegant and long-nosed saloon.
This 1951 example stands out due to its rare UK supply and meticulous restoration, catalogued in a photographic record alongside an impressive, comprehensive history file. The paintwork is in fine order, as is the car's chrome, while the reupholstered interior looks in superb condition and still carries plenty of period character.
The History and Paperwork
Registered in 1951
Original - and rare - British market example
Restored in the 1990s
The DVLA records 3 previous keepers
In current ownership since 2022
Huge history file including:
Full documented record of the 90s restoration
Many original and period documents
Annotated fabric and leather samples for the interior
Period Citroen handbooks and paperwork
Older service/replacement invoices and hand-written notes on the car’s history
MOT exempt
Currently indicates 85,435 miles on a five-figure odometer
The Condition
Bodywork free of ripples, with narrow and even gaps between panels
Doors open smoothly without sagging or creaking
High-quality repaint
Replated chrome looks great against the black paintwork
New-looking Michelin tyres
Underside is solid and nicely undersealed
Deep burgundy leather seats reupholstered to a high standard
Headlining and carpets neat and free of stains
Door panels smart with well-defined edges and neatly trimmed pockets
Original revarnished woodwork in warm colour and grain
Instruments and switches all present and correct with some light patina
Steering wheel shows some wear with cracks to the finish
The Mechanics
Fully rebuilt 1.9L I4 powerplant
3-speed manual transmission
Engine and ancillaries in fine fettle
Wiring, hoses, and ducting appear supple and healthy
No signs of leaks or accumulated dirt
Robust Bakelite/plastic assemblies
Oversized suspension, steering, and brake assemblies in fine shape
We understand the car is starting, driving, shifting and braking as it should
We have no reports of any mechanical issues
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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
