Background
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The Citroën B2 is the second model produced by the Paris-based brand. After its foundation in 1919, Citroën started off production with a model called the Type A. The logical successor of the Type A became the Type B2. Not only was it the second model of Citroën, it was also the second model ever to be produced according to modern mass production technologies. The cars were built at André Citroën’s plant in central Paris, only a stone throw away from the Eiffel tower in the 15th arrondissement. Production of the type B2 began in 1921 and ceased in 1926.
The B2 featured an improved four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1,4 litres resulting in a power output of around 20bhp and coupled to a three-speed gearbox. Consequently, the car was classified in the 10CV fiscal class and was therefore frequently referred to as the 10CV. The little engine could accelerate the type B2 to a top speed of 72 km/h, a remarkable capability considering that most roads in Europe back then were actually dirt tracks.
The Citroën type B quickly became renowned for its robustness and economy; the car would consume around 8 litres of fuel per 100km, which converts into 31 miles per British gallons. A remarkable feat back in the day and a strong selling argument for Citroën’s flagship motorcar.
After the first type B version, an all-steel (‘tout-acier’ in French) body version was offered from 1924 on. This new version was called the B10. However, both cars had many similarities, meaning that confusion sometimes arises over which are which. Adding to this complexity is the fact that both cars were produced in parallel in 1925 and 1926.
The Type B2 is a hugely significant motorcar not only for Citroën, but for the European automotive sector in general. A total of 89.841 cars were produced, and at its peak, the Paris plant even produced 200 cars per day! During those days, France was the number one car producer in Europe, with many different brands still existing. However, no other manufacturer in France, nor Europe, was able to compete with Citroën’s production figures and state-of-the-art techniques.
