Lot 135 - 1958 Citroën DS 19
| Lot Number | 135 |
| Registration | 246 YUE |
| Chassis Number | 035387 |
| Engine Number | 20603097 |
| Odometer reading | 59,371 km |
| Estimate | £29,000 - £38,000 |
- Only 59,371km from new
- Restored to a very good standard
- Owned by the vendor for the last 11 years
The Paris Motor Show opened its doors on 6th October 1955 at 9am. There was an immediate rush to the Citroën stand where the DS 19 was unveiled to the world. Never before had a car incorporated so many ground-breaking innovations at one time; it quite literally stunned the automotive world. By the close of play on the opening day, nearly 12,000 orders had been placed for this revolutionary vehicle. The aesthetics of the DS were in comparison to the Peugeot 403 almost alien like; combining this to the fascinating hydraulic system it is easy to see why these Citroën’s caused such euphoria.
This delightful example has been owned by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic vendor for the last 11 years. The car originally came from the Toulouse area of France and was parked up in a garage very early in its life, hence the exceedingly low mileage. It was then purchased by a Dutch museum who stripped the exterior and prepared for painting, the car showed no signs at all of corrosion. Their plans changed and the car was purchased by DS World who tucked the car away, thus preserving the car. The vendor subsequently purchased the car from DS World and set about a restoration. The car was dismantled and the chassis and bodywork found to be in virtually perfect condition. The engine was removed and sent to Carl Hopkins Services to be completely stripped and rebuilt, at the same time the gearbox was sent to DS Workshop and inspected; it was found to be in perfect order although the hydraulic gear selectors were rebuilt. All of the hydraulic system was overhauled including the spheres, pistons, steering rack and pumps; this work was carried out by Pleiades in Huntingdon. The original wiring loom was found to be in excellent order and was refitted to the car. A new stainless steel exhaust system was fitted and both the starter motor and dynamo were overhauled. In conclusion, this is one of the best DS 19’s we have seen. With prices of these early examples fetching over $90,000 in the U.S., this example appears to be very attractively estimated given the condition and mileage.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.