1964 CITROEN ID19 DS SAFARI

This 1964 Citroen ID 19 Safari is a charming and well-preserved example of the iconic avant-garde French family wagon. Under the bonnet is a 1.9-litre inline-four engine coupled to a four-speed manual transmission with column shift.

First registered on 1 July 1964, this Safari was delivered new by Frank Dell Ltd of Chalfont St Peter. It was subsequently purchased by a Mr McClements in 1965 who kept the car for the next 27 years, evidently keeping it in good order. Since then, it has featured in the John Reynolds book ‘Original Citroen DS’ as well as having a full engine rebuild in 1999/2000 and a full re-spray during 2004. It came into the possession of the current owner just over a year ago, and has only five previous keepers on the V5C.

Thanks to the aforementioned respray, the external condition of this Safari is very fair for its age, with relatively minor age-related wear visible to the paintwork. The shut lines all appear even, and there is no recorded history of accident damage to the car. Its chrome bumpers and trim details are in good condition, with no sign of any major pitting or other damage.

The interior is believed to be wholly original, and the condition of the cabin would certainly appear to support this. The leather surfaces, including the door cards and seats, are all showing degrees of age-related wear and cracking, with the driver’s seat in particular is worn across the surface. However, there does not appear to be any major damage to the leather, so it could readily be used as-is and carefully preserved. The wood dashboard inlay is original and has some cracks and lacquer lift, while the steering wheel and other switchgear also presents with a smart ‘patina’.

Other than the aforementioned engine rebuild and re-spray, the maintenance history of this Safari is unknown. However, it has recently had both rear suspension spheres replaced. The vehicle is exempt from mandatory MOT testing on account of its age, though it did pass its last exam on 20 May 2019 with no advisories after the brakes were freed off and an exhaust leak was rectified.

Included with the vehicle are a number of historical documents from previous owners, including various items of correspondence with local Citroen dealerships, photographs of the engine overhaul, and other items of paperwork.

Offering a refined driving experience with eye-catching styling, and a practical and minimalist cabin, this 1964 Citroen ID 19 Safari presents well for its age, and is an eminently usable classic. Its originality means that the next owner may wish to retain the patina and use it as-is, though it would also be a great candidate for a sympathetic restoration.

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.