1972 Citroën DS 21

This car was made in 1972 and is a 21 model, meaning it’s fitted with a four-cylinder petrol engine with a displacement of 2,175 cc. This was introduced in 1965 but was improved with electronic fuel injection by Bosch in 1970, making the DS one of the first mass produced cars of its time to do so.

This car is running beautifully, offering a ride that makes you feel like you’re floating on air due to its famous suspension. This particular example features the uber-classic/ chic combination of black paint and black leather, the beloved choice of French Presidents.

The car has been with its current owner since 2007 and has seen light use, and has been maintained on a regular basis. It has been regularly serviced by Andrew Brodie Engineering, a highly respected Citroen Specialist in North West London.

This Citroen DS is very striking in its ‘noir’ colour scheme. Its paintwork is mostly in good condition with contrasting brightwork, which also looks to have been maintained well (the roof has small signs of wear). Another lovely contrast is the gold badging, which only makes the DS even look more regal.

The jaw-dropping aesthetics are thanks to Flaminio Bertoni and the French aeronautical engineer André Lefèbvre, although the Series 3, the car here, was designed by Robert Opron. If that name is familiar, it’s because he was also responsible for the Citroen SM and CX. With this being a Series 3, the famous directional headlights are standard fit, allowing the driver to see better when cornering – very cutting edge in the 1960s.

Silver DS badges adorn the C pillars, as do the high mounted indicators, which are almost a fashion statement all by themselves – making something functional chic aswell. Look down from there and you’ll see the wheel spats, which look so good you wonder why aren’t used more commonly in car design. Even the fuel filler flap has its own certain je ne sais quoi about it.

The engine bay is not mint condition, but it’s got just about the amount of patina. Plus it’s mechanically sound – the most important thing. Radial tyres wrap around the wheels which have a centrelock design to them making them easier and quicker to remove if you happen to get a puncture.

There are a few small imperfections, such as cosmetic damage to the offside rear (see the small dent in the rear bumper as well as a few other marks) and imperfections to the nearside rear roof line. The panel gap at the bottom of the bonnet is not quite straight either, but doesn’t take away from the fact this is one extremely stylish car.

As with the exterior, the Citroen DS has plenty of charms and character features, such as the single spoke steering wheel with a column mounted gear selector. The switchgear and upholstery are in good condition, but it’s worth noting that the headlining does sag a little (as mentioned previously).

That aside, the interior of this DS is well kept with some lovely period features such as the large Citroen badging on the glovebox. While the inside has retained the same character and style it had leaving the factory, there are some areas that could benefit from attention, such as internal chrome piping to the front seats and the door handles, which are tarnished. The carpets have been re-fitted properly, though, and a broken sun visor has also been replaced by the owner.

The engine bay is good for its age. The car has had regular servicing via a well-respected Citroen specialist and the spare wheel is present under the bonnet. The car is mechanically sound, but there are some areas of rust to consider, and one of the rubber exhaust hangers needs to be repaired.

This model is fitted with the semi-automatic gearbox, which has misguided views as being difficult to maintain or work on. This is not the case and be maintained easily once understood. The transmission is cutting edge for its age, but it’s important not to leave the car in gear as they can cause a headache for the next time you go to drive it!

The car has been with its current owner since 2007 and has been regularly serviced via Andrew Brodie Engineering, a Citroen Specialist in North West London. Although the car would benefit from some attention, it’s been well maintained and is mechanically sound.

September 2007 saw a large bulk of work carried out as all 4 suspension spheres were replaced along with fresh air ducts, sun visor, new bonnet lining, new boot lining, new starter relay, and windscreen wiper arm. A JVC sound system was installed and the headlining was pulled down and re-glued where possible.

More recent work includes:

Early 2008 saw a battery replacement.

In 2012 an uprated 70amp alternator was fitted, making the car better mannered in traffic.

In 2016 an electric fuel pump was fitted for easy starting after a winter lay-up.

In 2017 a new clutch and front brake discs were fitted.

In 2021 a new radiator was installed with an oil change.

There aren’t many cars that compare to the timeless style of the Citroen DS, and even though it’s fifty this year it looks as stunning as ever. This example is ready to be used a regular driver, or make up a light restoration project.

Whether it’s parked in Monte Carlo or in your local Waitrose car park it’s bound to draw admiration and respect. Some will simply appreciate the elegant styling whereas those in the know will know just how significant this car was not only to Citroen, but the automotive world as a whole, thanks to the innovate engineering.

This is your chance to own an automotive legend, and arguably Citroen’s greatest icon.

Our estimate for this car is £16,000 - £20,000.

Viewing is always encouraged. This particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; we are open weekdays between 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.