1973 Citroen DS 23 Safari Wagon

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 was actually penned by an Italian, Flaminio Bertoni and still looks remarkably fresh today. Over the years, Citroen expanded the range to include an estate model (dubbed the Safari, or Confort Familiale, with the option of seven seats) in 1959 and the convertible (Decapotable in French) in 1960. By the 1970s, fuel injection and five-speed gearboxes were fitted to top spec. models and for 1972 the DS23 was announced; the final incarnation saw a new 2347cc four-cylinder with Bosch EFI delivering a very healthy 141 bhp. Interest from collectors in the DS 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 on a daily basis and in Safari guise, as offered here, has the added bonus of being able to take the kids, their mates and the family dog as well!