1974 Citroen D Special Sedan

Description

Unconventional, futuristic and very French, the Citroen DS was launched in 1955 as a replacement for the venerable Traction Avant and remained in production for the next two decades, during which time the rest of the world slowly caught up. Both technically and stylistically advanced in design, the DS boasted unparalleled ride and road holding thanks to the hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension system, with hydraulics also controlling the brakes, clutch, transmission and power steering. Powered by a relatively small capacity four-cylinder engine, the Citroen relied on superior aerodynamics to provide a high cruising speed and decent acceleration - the unmistakable streamlined shape of the DS still looks remarkably fresh today. The ID shared the DS's body but was less powerful and luxurious. Although it shared the engine capacity of the DS engine (at this stage 1,911 cc), the ID provided a maximum power output of only 69 hp compared to the 75 hp claimed for the DS19. The ID was replaced by the D Special and D Super in 1970, but these retained the lower specification position in the range. Interest from collectors in the DS/ID range has reached unparalleled heights, with prices of the more specialized models reaching stratospheric levels, particularly the Decapotables. Universally recognised as one of the most iconic designs ever to reach production, the DS remains a classic car that can still be enjoyed daily.