FAB WHEELS DIGEST (F.W.D.): Citroën 2CV (1948-90)

The Citroën 2CV was an economy front-wheel drive car produced by the French car manufacturer Citroën between 1948 and 1990. It was technologically advanced and innovative, but with uncompromisingly utilitarian unconventional looks, and deceptively simple Bauhaus inspired bodywork that belied the sheer quality of its underlying engineering. It was designed to move the French peasantry on from horses and carts. It is considered one of Citroën's most iconic cars. It was designed for low cost, simplicity of use and maintenance, versatility, reliability, low fuel consumption and off-road driving. For this it had a light, easily serviceable engine, extremely soft long travel suspension and high ground clearance. Since Citroën unveiled the car at the Paris Salon on October 7, 1948, 3,872,583 2CVs were produced between 1948 and 1990. Powered by a small, lightweight, 9HP air-cooled flat twin engine. 4-speed manual transmission. Engine size increased from 425cc to 602 cc in 1968, giving 28 bhp (21 kW) at 7,000 rpm. Over the years, there were different variants and special editions of the 2CV. (wikipedia)

1948 Citroën 2CV Type A Sedan

Light and pure in shape, the early cars are best recognized by their fluted hoods. The very early models like this one have the full length sunroof that goes all the way to the engine compartment.This early 2CV represents what most connoisseurs consider the purest and most attractive variant of this long running model. Early examples are rarely found in the US and are the most desired by collectors. (bonhams.com)

1956 Citroën 2CV

1962 Citroën 2CV

(Photos from bonhams.com)

1964 Citroën 2CV

(Photos from petrolicious.com)

Citroën 2CV Spécial (1975 - 90)

A base model called the 2CV Spécial was introduced in 1975. In order to keep the price as low as possible, Citroën removed the third side window, the ashtray, and virtually all trim from the car. For the first few years of production, the Spécial was only available in yellow. (wikipedia)

Citroën 2CV Club (1980 - early 80s)

Citroën 2CV Dolly (1985 - 90)

An improved version of the Spécial.

Citroën 2CV Charleston (1980 - 90)

Inspired by Art-Deco two colour styles 1920s Citroën model colour schemes.

An improved version of the Club.

Citroën 2CV Fourgonette Van (1951 - 73)

The "Weekend" version of the van had collapsible, removable rear seating and rear side windows, enabling a tradesman to use it as a family vehicle at the weekend as well as for business in the week. (wikipedia)

Citroën 2CV Sahara (1960 - 71)

Four-wheel drive. Built for difficult off-road driving, the Sahara had an extra engine mounted in the rear compartment and both front and rear-wheel drive. Only 694 Saharas were built.

The two clutches operated from a single hydraulic supply and the transmissions were controlled through a single lever. The 425cc engines started and operated separately, which allowed one to be turned off for greater economy. The suspension was beefed up and larger tires were fitted. The whole package, while exhibiting some idiosyncrasies, operated well and was effective in its job. Most of the 694 built were used by the Spanish police or for rescue work in the Alps. They were typically driven hard, so finding a solid Sahara, let alone an excellent one, is difficult. (bonhams.com)