Beschreibung:

Body no. 0032.000654 Colour: Gris Nacré Cylinders: 4; 2,175cc Gears: 3 + reverse (semi-automatic) Power: 100bhp Produced: 1955-1973 Production: 1,754 (Décapotable) Just as it had done 21 years previously with the revolutionary ‘Traction Avant’, Citroën stunned the world again in 1955 with the launch of the strikingly styled ‘DS’. Beneath the shark-like newcomer’s aerodynamically efficient, low-drag bodyshell there was all-independent, self-levelling, hydro-pneumatic suspension; plus power-operated brakes, clutch and steering. No European car would match the DS’s ride quality for several years, the fundamental soundness of Citroën’s ahead-of-its-time hydro-pneumatic suspension being demonstrated by its survival in present-day top-of-the-range models. The DS’s original 1,911cc, overhead-valve, long-stroke engine was replaced in 1966 by a short-stroke 1,985cc unit, also available in 2,175cc and 2,347cc versions, while other DS developments included swivelling headlights, fuel injection and a five-speed gearbox. Other models offered alongside the original DS were the ID (a simplified, cheaper version), the cavernous Safari estate and the two-door Décapotable (convertible), the latter boasting coachwork by Henri Chapron. (Chapron’s first convertibles had been produced independently of Citroën, but the factory eventually gave the project its blessing). Citroën’s Décapotables were built on the longer, stronger chassis of the ID Break (Estate) but the model was never produced in England, where Citroën’s right-hand drive cars were assembled at its Slough factory. In total, 1,365 usine (factory) convertibles were made with either the DS19 or DS21 engine between 1960 and 1971, while Chapron built a further 389 of his own, the last in 1973. Chapron operated independently of Citroën enabling him to build cars to individual customer order. Supplied new to Nantes, this example is finished in Gris Nacré (pearlescent grey) with black leather interior, and is equipped with the semi-automatic, column-change ‘C-Matic’ gearbox. We are advised that the car is in very good condition and comes with complete history. Approximately 10 years ago (at circa 120,000 kilometres) it was partially restored by a recognised specialist, the engine being completely overhauled, many new hydraulic parts fitted, the body repainted in original livery, and a new hood and carpets installed to original specification. New Michelin XAS tyres of the correct size are fitted. The interior upholstery in black leather is original and has a beautiful patina. All the original trim is present and intact, and the car looks first class and is fault free. The period-correct Becker radio is augmented by a hidden amplifier and MP3 player connection; as well as the original loudspeakers, there is a bass unit and two small treble units hidden in the boot behind the ventilation grilles. These items are not visible and can easily be removed without trace. Until approximately 2001 the car remained in the possession of a private collection in Aachen, which had commissioned its restoration. It is now resident in Germany. This beautiful and highly desirable classic Citroën is offered with the original French Carte Grise and FIVA appraisal certifying that it is an original DS Cabriolet by Chapron. • Landmark model • One of only l,754 produced • Chapron coachwork • Restored condition 1969 Citroën DS21 Décapotable Carrosserie par Henri Chapron Châssis no. DS 21 4627096 Carroserie no. 0032.000654 Couleur: Gris Nacré Nombre de cylindres : 4; Cylindrée : 2,175cc Nombre de rapports: 3 + marche arrière (semi-automatique) Puissance: 100 chevaux Années de production : 1955-1973 Production : 1,754 (Décapotables) Comme ils l’avaient fait 21 ans plus tôt, avec la révolutionnaire Traction Avant, Citroën surprit à nouveau le Monde en 1955 avec le lancement de la DS au design étonnant. Sous son allure de requin, très efficace au plan aérodynamique, avec une très faible trainée, on trouve une suspension hydro