1956 Citroën 2CV

1956 Citroën 2CV
 
While any 2CV will always bring a smile to the collective faces of the DoL team, for us this example truly ticks every box. A full restored early ripple-bonnet car, with crucial engine upgrade for increased usability and finished in a classic grey hue, this 1956 2CV is a superb example.
 
An original French car, the car was purchased by the current owner (an enthusiast and motoring journalist) from a collector. Prior to this the car was full restored in 2010, with photographic documentation of this in the car’s large history file amongst stacks of invoices.
 
As an early model it retains its pure original features such as 400 millimetre wheels and roof mounted side indicators, but has had the original 425cc engine replaced with a later 602cc unit which greatly improves the car’s usability. Anyone who has driven a 425cc car will tell you that no matter how charming it is, the ability to keep up with modern traffic, and tackle hills larger than those made by ants, is a real bonus.
 
Upon purchasing the car it was fully recomissioned by Cotswold 2CV services and has recently benefitted from fitment of electronic ignition among other maintenance, and having been diligently cared for an sparingly used by the current owner is on-the-button and presents excellently today. 
 
An excellent restored example of a model with joy rivetted into its very core, this 2CV represents an ideal mix of early model looks with later car usability and is a guaranteed event every drive.