Lot 214 - 1970 Citroën DS21 EFI Decapotable by Chapron
| Lot Number | 214 |
| Registration | 114 XUY |
| Chassis Number | 00FB00922 |
| Engine Number | 0580.002976 |
| Odometer reading | 90,000 km |
| Result | Sold - £140,000 |
- Supplied new to a German Professor of Surgery
- Well documented service history
- Delightful colour combination and condition
The Citroën DS is a four-door, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mid-size car manufactured from 1955 to 1975 in saloon, estate and convertible body configurations. Italian sculptor and industrial designer Flaminio Bertoni and the French aeronautical engineer André Lefèbvre styled and engineered the car. Paul Magès developed the hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension. Noted for its aerodynamic, futuristic body design and innovative technology, the DS set new standards in ride quality, handling, and braking. Citroën sold 1,455,746 cars, including 1,330,755 built at the manufacturer's original mass-production plant in Paris. The DS came third in the 1999 Car of the Century poll recognising the world's most influential auto designs and was named the most beautiful car of all time by Classic & Sports Car magazine.
The Citroën DS is an icon and the Decapotable ranks among its most sought-after variants. Designer Flaminio Bertoni planned a convertible when the DS19 was launched in 1955, but teething troubles put the brakes on the idea. Many of the 80,000 buyers who placed orders at the show were still waiting two years later. The DS19 relied on a complex, integrated hydraulic system to control the suspension, steering, gearshift, and brakes. The DS' rigid box chassis and unstressed skin meant a convertible was an attractive possibility, and coachbuilder Chapron stepped forward. Ultimately, Citroën turned Henri Chapron to create the ‘Décapotable Usine,’ or ‘factory convertible,’ to meet demand. No mere chop jobs, these were true cabriolets with doors four inches longer than those of the saloons, in addition to other cosmetic changes. Importantly, they also received frame reinforcements to ensure their structural integrity. These cars were sold new through Citroën dealers. In all only 1,365 factory cabriolets are believed to have been built, with less than 500 of those said to be DS21 variants, making them rare when new and eagerly sought-after today. This delightful example comes with many of the original documents, it was delivered new to the eminent Professor of Surgery Dr. Theo Burckhart in Germany. Finished in the fabulous colour combination of metallic blue with cream leather interior and dark blue hood, this Citroën Decapotable is supplied with a V5 registration document and a good history folder. Is there a better way to cruise around the Cote D’Azur ?
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.