Highlights

Commercial version with particularly spacious interior
Largely faithful to original specification
Current ownership for approximately 12 years
Matching serial numbers
Modern alternator installed; original alternator supplied with the car

The Appeal

The Citroën Traction Avant is one of the most important automobiles of the 20th century. It notably shaped automotive history through its front-wheel drive, monocoque body, and hydraulic braking system on a production car. The Commercial version, with its extended rear section and generous interior, ranks among the most practical and versatile variants in the lineup. Today it represents a particularly rare version.

This 1955 example has been in the hands of its current owner since 2013 and is reported to be in good working order. According to the seller, the engine runs smoothly and quietly, reaching normal temperatures on the road. Presented in black with a gray interior, the car reportedly has bodywork and cabin in good condition. The paint was refreshed before acquisition by the current owner. The Traction is largely faithful to its original configuration, notably retaining its dashboard, interior fittings, and storage pockets.

Maintenance has been carried out by the owners over recent years, with several mechanical interventions detailed below. Registered in France as a classic vehicle, this Traction Commercial would be equally suited to historic rallies, long-distance touring, or weddings—a domain where its spacious rear cabin is a genuine asset.

Key Information

Mileage: 91,365 km on the odometer
Country of registration: France
MOT: Exempt due to classic vehicle status
Mechanics: 1,911 cc petrol engine, three-speed manual gearbox
Documentation: Owner's manual and registration certificate

The Details

New battery
Starter replaced, original unit being non-functional
Engine sump replaced due to leaks
Front left wheel bearing and key replaced
Underside treated with Blackson
Fire extinguisher installed in the trunk
Bodywork judged to be in very good condition by the seller, with few imperfections
Paint refreshed before acquisition by the current owner and has remained in good condition since
Front seats and rear bench described by the seller as being in good condition and comfortable
Headlining in good condition, with two small holes on one side
Trunk lock defective but present
Speedometer reading 40 km/h at standstill; recalibration needed, with cable replacement
Gearbox functioning correctly according to the seller, although first gear must be held on startup
Hydraulic braking; brake shoes described as being in very good condition
Steering reported to have no play
Front and rear axles described as being in good condition
Always parked in a closed garage
According to the seller, the car can reach 110 km/h on the motorway, with an ideal cruising speed of around 80 km/h

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We require that non-refundable fees be paid if you are the successful winner of the auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for indicative purposes only, and it is customary to conduct a full inspection of the vehicle before 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 offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just as you do, which is why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed for sale on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial lien, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also verify whether vehicles are registered as written off as a result of a total loss at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to assist you. The presence or absence of a label does not, however, guarantee the vehicle's status, and it is always helpful to conduct a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For more details and to speak with the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.