1960 Citroen 2CV AZLP

In production for an astonishing 42 years between 1948 and 1990, the Citroen 2CV was originally conceived as an economy motor car to wean French farmers away from their horses and carts. Its revolutionary design incorporated a small 9hp air-cooled flat twin engine, front wheel drive, four speed transmission, soft long travel independent suspension, bolt on detachable front and rear wings, flap-up windows, and full length canvas roof (which conveniently enabled oversized loads to be carried). Various minor updates were introduced over the years, but the essential character of the car remained true to its original concept; for example, the AZLP of 1957 came equipped with a boot lid panel and a strip of aluminium on the bonnet.  In all nearly 3.9 million 2CVs were produced.

This 1960 AZLP was found in a barn during the 1990s in Epoisses, Burgundy, by its previous owner, a Monsieur Pazery. An early example, it is equipped with two side windows and the first generation ‘ripple bonnet’.  In 2003, it was recommissioned and resprayed, and three years later, the current English custodian purchased the 2CV and used it as daily transport, as well as participating in classic rallies and events. In January 2017, the vendor returned to the UK, bringing the Citroen with him. It has clearly been well maintained; recent attention includes the fitting of a new fully-opening fabric roof, replacement front seats in the correct material and pattern, two new rear tyres, and a brake fluid change to silicone.

This well cared for example, ideal for Indian summer touring and with frugal petrol consumption, is supplied with a copy of the French vehicle licencing document, the HMRC acknowledgement document, the V5C registration certificate and a small period suitcase. 

Auction Date: 7 September 2017