A Canadian Citroën DS Décapotable and Kiwi Traction Avant
Restored DS21 Décapotable heads for Monaco
One of the most beguiling and stylish of all classics, the Citroën DS Décapotable (or drophead in English) cuts across all levels of enthusiast in its appeal. Despite being listed in Citroën’s sales catalogue from 1961 to 1971, numbers were understandably limited by them costing double the price of the equivalent saloon model. In all 1365 were built, all by coachbuilder Henri Chapron. Just 483 of these were based on the DS21 model, like this car being offered at Bonhams’ Monaco sale on 23 April. It was built in late 1967 so is equipped with the 109bhp version of Citroën’s 2175cc four-cylinder engine, coupled to its delightfulto-use four-speed semi-automatic transmission. Originally a Canadian export, this car was fitted with the optional uprated heater system offered for colder climates.
That build date also makes it a ‘crossover’ model, with the sleek new covered and directional headlamps but retaining the preferred dashboard design of earlier cars.
The car remained in Canada until around ten years ago when it was brought back to Europe for a new Dutch owner. He commissioned a full body restoration to be carried out by an Amsterdam Citroën specialist, who finished it in Bleu Antartique, a genuine period Chapron colour that suits the car’s lines nicely. To complete the cosmetic makeover the interior was reupholstered with tan leather and a new mohair roof fitted.
The current owner bought the car via a Dutch dealer in 2014. Wanting it to perform as well as it looked he commissioned a complete mechanical restoration from a French classic Citroën specialist. There is a photographic record of this work which was
comprehensive – engine, gearbox, brakes, steering, hydraulic system and electrics. The bill for all this came to €45,000 (£39,000).
Since completion the car has been kept in the South of France and has only been used sparingly in the summer months. It remains in superb condition and comes with certificates of authenticity from both Noelle-eleonore Chapron and Citroën Heritage.
Bonhams has assigned the car an estimate of £138k-£172k. If it can be bought somewhere in that range, especially at the lower end, that would count as a good deal. Our guide currently has a range for Mint to Concours of £148-190k. So anywhere within the estimate range would leave some room for the post-brexit duties that would be payable to bring it to the UK. It would be a show star where ever it went, and with condition, looks and rarity on its side should also be a good long-term safe haven for your money.