1988 Citroen 2CV 'Beachcomber Style' Saloon

Description

The Deux Chevaux first appeared at the 1948 Paris Salon and the quirky Citroën has come to epitomise French eccentricity on four wheels. With the original design brief pre-dating the war, the 2CV had to be able to carry two farmers, 50kg of potatoes and a basket of eggs across rough roads without breaking any of them at 50km/h, a goal achieved through the use of fully independent suspension interconnected front and rear. Sensitive rack and pinion steering, inboard front brakes and practical interior made the Deux Chevaux so much more than just basic transport. Development of the 2CV continued apace from the time of launch until production ceased at the Levallois plant in February 1988, the engine capacity being raised from an initial 375cc flat-twin through to the final 602cc engine developing 29bhp, twelve volt electrics from 1970, revisions to the bodywork and front disc brakes in 1981. When Citroën simplified the 2CV range in September 1979, just two models were offered, the Club and Special with the latter identifiable with circular headlamps. Towards the end of its production life Citroën offered numerous special editions, including the white/blue striped model originally built to commemorate France's entry in the America's Cup yacht race but known as the Beachcomber in export markets. Ownership of the 2CV is a rewarding experience, offering charm in spades, practicality and excellent value for money