Citroen Traction Avant 11B

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Considerably stronger, lighter and lower slung than conventional designs of its era, the brilliant Traction-Avant initially used a 1.3-litre 32bhp engine, which delivered 62mph and 28mpg economy (not at the same time) with exemplary handling and stability.

Only available in black, the updated 11B was launched in 1937, now with a 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine producing 46bhp which raised the top speed to nigh on 70mph. Production resumed after WW2 and lasted until 1957, when the Traction was replaced by the equally revolutionary DS after an astonishing 760,000 examples had been sold.

This splendid Paris-built example left the plant in December 1955, being registered in this country almost immediately according to the V5C, which is a bit of a mystery considering they were manufactured in Slough in RHD form at the time. We leave it to the new owner to fathom that one.

It has had extensive works over the last dozen years, a file of invoices detailing exactly where the £14,723 was spent. In 2006, the body was stripped and new panels fitted to the chassis and floors, the car being substantially repainted at the time.

In 2010 the engine was rebuilt, including the fitting of an unleaded head conversion. A period heater was also supplied and fitted at this time. Later that year, the car was treated to a reconditioned gearbox and a few months after that, new seat covers were added to the score. New carpets were fitted, along with new rain gutters and associated paintwork, a Kenlowe fan, a 12v conversion and new window seals.

In February of this year, Citroen Classics added 123 electronic ignition, a Weber 34ICH carburettor conversion and the car was given a tune-up. It also comes with a workshop manual and a parts book.

In very presentable condition with a lovely, spacious interior, this 11B Normale looks exceptional value. The huge support network of suppliers and specialists make these charismatic cars very easy to own.