1956 CITROËN 2CV 'RALLYE'

This Citroen 2CV is a fully-restored example of an early ‘ripple bonnet’ car, enhanced with eye-catching period ‘Rallye’ upgrades. Under the bonnet is a 425cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine, producing up to 12hp, driving the front wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 347km (215 miles), which is believed to be the mileage covered since the restoration prior to 2016. Before this, the odometer showed 92,725 km.

This car was acquired by a previous owner as a restoration project on the recommendation of Antoine Demetz, well-known in classic Citroen circles as the author of La Citroën 2CV de mon Père. During the restoration process, overseen by Demetz, the floorpan was replaced, while the body was stripped to a bare shell and repainted. In addition, the wiring harness was replaced and the interior was refurbished; and the restoration work is documented by invoices on file. Having been first registered in France in March 1956, the 2CV is now UK-registered and has been with the current vendor for the past two years.

Finished in a period-correct shade of gloss grey, this post-war icon presents very well for its age. A couple of chips are visible on the front end, most noticeably where the bonnet meets the driver’s side front wing, and on the fog lamp. Some minor surface rust is also visible on some of the exposed bolts and some components in the engine bay. The vendor states that during the restoration process, white circles for race numbers were discovered under layers of paint – so these were re-established as part of the cosmetic refurbishment.

This example is believed to have competed in regional rallies and the Rallye National des 2CV in the mid-50s, so it received upgrades such as Marchal Equilux headlamps, a Marchal fog lamp, and reinforced steel wheels. The canvas soft top remains in good order, adding ‘en plein air’ joy for the occupants and fitting snugly when closed.

Inside, the 2CV’s spartan cabin includes a passenger grab handle, a map reader and mechanical washer for rallying purposes. It is a masterclass in simplicity, with the eye-catching plaid seats remaining in great shape thanks to a previous re-trim; though some marks are visible to the rear of the seat trim. Contact points including the dashboard switchgear, gear knob and steering wheel remain in original condition, with everything said to be operational.

The engine of the ‘tin snail’ has been upgraded with a Solex 32 carburettor, which was present in pre-restoration photos, while a protective skid plate under the engine protects the sump from impacts. During the vendor’s ownership, it has received fettling to fix minor faults and keep the car in good condition.

Due to the age of this 2CV, it is exempt from MOT testing and road tax in the UK, making for cost-effective classic motoring. Wearing a matched set of Michelin tyres, these have ample tread remaining and are in the correct fitment for the Citroen’s dinky frame.

Offering a truly charming driving experience backed with motorsport-oriented upgrades, this Deux Chevaux is a desirable early example of one of the most iconic European designs of the 20th century. Still looking fresh from its recent restoration, this classic will continue to delight its next owner on the open road, and will no doubt attract plenty of admiring glances along the way.

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