CITROËN CARS 1934-1986: A Pictorial History

Julian Parish Published 2022 by Veloce ISBN 978-1-787116-36-8

Here is the first of this series of books from Veloce to deal with a non-british marque (although some Citroëns were built in the UK between 1935 and ’65) and it’s the first to include PRE-WWII models.

The book takes a look at every variation of each Citroën model built in the 193486 period, starting with the 7A version of the traction avant, which was so under-powered that it was on sale only for three months! It ends with the Axel, a short-lived product of a joint venture with the Romanian Government. In between, there are many well-known Citroëns; as well as the ‘Maigret’ style FWD saloons, there are all the variations of 2CV and DS19, Ami, XM, GSA, and BX, most of which were long-lived and all were revolutionary in their respective ways.

Citroën tended not to follow the herd; just think of the brilliant DS (Déesse/ Goddess) compared with what else was on sale when it came to market back in 1955. The M35 and GS Birotor were early attempts with Wankel rotary-engined cars. They weren’t successful, but at least Citroën tried the new technology.

The 2CV, with its many derivatives, lasted from 1948-1990. And I don’t think this French marque could make cars with conventional interiors, instrument panels, and steering wheels if they tried. Then there are the special bodied cars like the Frua-bodied SM, and a six-wheeled ambulance by Tissier on a CX chassis, the various changes of company ownership, and much more.

Running to 152 pages, this compact softcover is packed with interesting information and specifications on every model and variation, and the photos are a nice mix of period and contemporary shots.

It’s all very readable, even if you aren’t a Citroën fanatic. Definitely recommended.