Citroen 90th Anniversary of Creative Automobile
The visionary Andre Citroen invented new technologies. This is a review of the production with pictures of most models.
The young and so inventive André Citroën (1878-1935) had an ambition: to change the perception about automobile and allow people from all walks of life to afford a car. He creates a factory in Paris and begins to build the Citroên A-Type. This is the very first fully equipped grand series car with a low price. The Citroën Logo appears in 1920. It represents a double helical gearing whose power and resistance are well above average, expressing a creative and audacious vision.
The Traction Avant appears in 1934, this is the first front wheel drive car. A true revolution. It will be produced for 23 years in various different versions.
Citroën Traction Avant
http://images.stanzapub.com/readers/2009/10/21/tractionavantcitroen_1.jpg
And why not use the front wheel drive to create a van thus giving more space for loading at the rear? The H-Type is light and solid with its corrugated iron body. It is capable of carrying 1200 kg, as much as the weight of the van itself.
Citroën Type H – 1947.
http://images.stanzapub.com/readers/2009/10/21/citroenh_1.jpg
Designed for the countryside in 1948, the small and economical 2 CV will become a symbol of freedom and non-conformism in the ’60s and ’70s.
Citroën 2 CV
http://images.stanzapub.com/readers/2009/10/21/citroen2cv3_1.jpg
In 1955, Citroën creates an event with the DS. Its hydraulic systems control the suspension, gear box and brakes. 1200 units were sold on the very first day of the Paris Motor Show in 1955. It will be produced until 1975 with many upgraded and luxurious versions. In 1958 a landaulet version is designed for General de Gaulle. Black DS were official cars of the French Government for many years. 1.5 million units were produced. The mythic DS (goddess in French) is a landmark in automobile history. Also check out my article: http://quazen.com/recreation/autos/fascinating-french-classic-cars-citroen-ds/
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16 Comments
giftarist, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
Wow, really well presented and fab piece!
C Jordan, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
The DS immediately brings to mind old European films of the 60’s where these cars are racing around Paris chasing criminals. 
chris73, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
Such a short man needs a great car!
Thanks
Lostash, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
One of my favourite manufacturers Francois! After a recent dull period, they really have re-discovered design flair!! Some of their recent concepts have been stunning too!
Ruby Hawk, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
they are all so neat, I don’t know which one to choose.
bailieman, posted this comment on Oct 22nd, 2009
Great article. My favorite car is the DS. I recently watched the promo film again, showing a group of cars all driving along on three wheels. The lines of the car are beautiful and its classical looks continue to find its way into many films and adverts.
Avaxier, posted this comment on Oct 23rd, 2009
Nice and well presented article! I really love the look of Citroen 2 CV. It’s so unique and beautiful
deep blue, posted this comment on Oct 23rd, 2009
Such stylish designs. I prefer the picasso best in line. Great article my friend.
clay hurtubise, posted this comment on Oct 24th, 2009
Geez, you guys are so lucky! The US limits our choices so much! Always have had a soft spot in my heart for the lowly CV 2!
Thanks,
Clay
Sonora, posted this comment on Oct 25th, 2009
The evolution of this car is amazing! The Citroën C6 has to be my favourite!
Joe Dorish, posted this comment on Oct 25th, 2009
Great article about a great innovative and long lasting car company.
RS Wing, posted this comment on Oct 25th, 2009
Love that Teal Green beauty. Elegant and finely crafted article Francois. Great piece here. All of the vehicles. You are a true enthusiast!
Francois Hagnere, posted this comment on Oct 26th, 2009
Thank you all for your comments. My uncle had several DS and a SM. Some Citroën models seem to have been designed to last forever. The 2cv and DS are unforgettable. Glad you all enjoyed this series.
Rick Peppe, posted this comment on Nov 21st, 2009
An absolutely beautiful reprise of the Citroen Story.
I hope to own a classic Citroen some lucky day!
Dr. Enrico Peppe
Florida
Warriors, posted this comment on Oct 21st, 2009
Nice one…