1954 Citroen Light 15

The Citroen ‘Traction Avant’ was produced from 1934 to 1957 and is a car every petrol head should have on his/her bucket list as a true Classic Car to experience and enjoy. Andre Lefebvre and Flaminio Bertoni’s concept of a spacious 4 door saloon with front wheel drive and independent suspension on all four wheels, mounted on a monocoque, crash-resistant body and rack and pinion steering was a landmark design. To drive one in its day must have been a great thrill and even today it brings a huge smile for the way that miles are covered with sublime ease and quite quickly as the handling and road manners are truly amazing. No wonder it was known as ‘Reine de la Route’ (Queen of the Road).

There were a number of models on offer, from the first 7CVs through to the larger 11 series with a choice of four or six cylinder engines and coachwork of various sized saloons, a long wheelbase ‘familale’ and ‘Commerciale’ plus very pretty coupes and even a pickup. UK right hand drive Light Fifteens were assembled at the Slough factory and to exempt them from import duty, had to contain at least 51% UK parts. Here we are delighted to offer a Slough built right hand drive example with 12 volt Lucas electrics, a walnut dash with Jaeger instruments, full leather trim and wool headlining. Exterior changes are chrome bumpers and over-riders and a chrome grille.

761 UXA has been with the present owner for almost twenty years and had regular MOT tests. A respray in silver blue metallic was carried out some years ago and the said owner, being a professional trimmer of cars, boats and aeroplanes, undertook a full restoration of the upholstery and interior trims, which survives in fine order, and is complemented by a Moto-Lita wood rim steering wheel. Sadly ill health has meant the motor car has sat idle for a year or more and the paintwork will need attention, as will the chrome bumpers, and the tyres require replacement, hence a reasonable reserve price. The underside appears to be sound and solid though. Despite the lack of use we were delighted how easily the engine burst into life on our inspection and it is hoped that this will encourage a new owner to persevere with re-commissioning this grand old lady, so as to enjoy that very special motoring experience to be found in one of these remarkable cars.

The history file contains the aforesaid MOT test certificates, correspondence, a photocopy instruction book, photocopy repair manuals and the V5C registration certificate.

Auction Date: 8 June 2023