Citroen 2CV

The Citroen 2CV is very much an iconic emblem of post-war France. 

With the countries large rural population in mind and with resources still in short supply following the ravages of war, the 2CV had a distinctly utilitarian look.

But following its launch at the Paris Salon in 1948 the model proved to be fantastically successful and was to continue in production for over 40 years.

Demand for the early Citroen 2CVs was so large that as waiting lists grew the price of second hand versions exceeded that of new ones. Production was stepped up and during 1950 6,000 were built, six-times more than the previous year.

The Citroen 2CV is very basic, but improvements continued during the 50s. In 1953 the cable pull start was replaced by an ignition key and door locks were added.

The car began to attract interest from abroad, with exports to Switzerland, and production was started in the United Kingdom. However, interest in United States for the 2CV was extremely limited.

In 1955 the AZ was added to the range, boasting a more powerful 425cc engines as well as centrifugal clutch. More choice in design was offered with the AZPL model and customers were at last given a choice of colour. And by the end of the 1950s there were four model options available for would-be 2CV owners.

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