1972 CITROËN D SUPER 5-21

This Citroën D Super 5-21 presents as a highly original example of the idiosyncratic French luxury saloon, which would make a great basis for some refurbishment or even a total restoration. Under the bonnet is a 2,175cc carburettor-fed inline-four, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox with column gearshift. The odometer reads 96,902 miles.

First registered in 1972, this D Super 5-21, is a rare UK-market, right-hand drive car with only eight previous registered keepers over 48 years. In 1972, the DS21 was replaced by the DS23 in the model range, but its 2,175cc engine was offered in the D Super model as the new ‘D Super 5’, offering the extra power of the DS21 motor and the five-speed gearbox for more refined cruising.

The DS is a landmark in 20th century automotive design and engineering. It combined many ground-breaking features – such as directional headlights, fibreglass panelling and different front and rear track widths – into its streamlined Flaminio Bertoni-designed body and was the first mass-produced production car to feature disc brakes.

It is most famous for its hydro-pneumatic suspension system with automatic levelling and variable ground clearance, which delivered a ‘magic carpet ride’ of unrivalled smoothness. This system was also used for the power steering and braking assistance. The patent was also used under licence by Rolls-Royce for their luxury vehicles.

Now presented in gloss black paintwork, it is believed the car was originally red – and the HPI record shows a colour change in 1996 to black. There are small marks around the vehicle, including minor scratches and some bubbling under the paint, most noticeably on the left-rear door, but in general it presents with a handsome patina.

The elegant glass Marchal headlight lenses are free of imperfections, while the rear lights, indicator flutes and badging are damage-free. There is a crack in the fibreglass boot lid which has affected the paint finish. This D Super 5-21, retains its original Citroën steel wheels and hubcaps, which are in good condition with only the odd minor dent on the face.

Upholstered with black vinyl and red carpeted door cards, it is understood that the seats were originally trimmed in red velour, but otherwise that the interior has never been restored. All switchgear is present, with minimal signs of wear, while the seats are in good order with no scratches, rips or tears to the material.

There are minor signs of corrosion under the headlining and rubber door seal. Contact points including the gearstick and pedals are in good condition, though the wrap on the steering wheel is beginning to peel. The vendor reports that there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

The most recent MOT test was on 5 June 2020, which the car passed with no advisories – though due to its age, the elegant French saloon is MOT test exempt. The wheels are fitted with Hankook K702 and Michelin XAS tyres.

The seller states that the car is accompanied by a large history file, including numerous invoices for parts and labour, as well as old MOT test certificates and Road Fund Licences.

Hailing from an era when Citroën was synonymous with cutting-edge luxury and design, this D Super 5-21 is a useable and attractive example of a landmark car. It would make a strong base for further worthy restoration, with the model having been voted by a panel of twenty car designers, as the most beautiful car of all time for Classic and Sports Car magazine in 2009.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

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