It was a friend to the peace loving generation, James Bond outran the bad guys in one and it captivates the spirit of French motoring. It is, to be frank, an iconic piece of economical motoring history. Here is one you should save.
Here is one you should save: Citroën 2CV
Designed before World War 2 and conceived to help motorise the rural population of France, the utilitarian design masked a car that was very, very clever. Featuring interconnected suspension and an indefatigable two-cylinder air cooled engine capable of running at full revs for weeks before so much as coughing, it was quite simply a revelation.
Although considered ugly when launched during 1948, it soon found a vast number of enthusiasts worldwide. Throughout its 52-year long life span nothing really changed - except for the introduction of the 2CV6.
For someone jumping into one from a modern car, it will seem like an alien world - the gear changes are unique with a pull-push system and the ride quality is lairy to say the least - but the seats are comfortable, it’ll run all day long and the pull-back roof set the way for manufacturers to follow in making cars fun.
This one holds the famous multi-coloured body panel with only two previous owners. It’s been in storage since 2010, holds only 65,745 miles from new and was first registered in February 1988.
All this French beauty requires before an MoT can be granted are some new tyres, indicators, seatbelt anchors and windscreen washers.
It will also require a new chassis - but with the 2CV’s simple design this isn’t a task to make you wish you had never been born.
But why should you save this vehicle? There are few cars to cause a grin or laugh when clapping eyes on one every single time - but the 2CV will spread happiness to all in its presence. It is also huge fun, cheap to use and run and maintain and won’t break the bank when you need to send it in for garage surgery.
Parts and owners clubs are incredible easy to find - and once you have brought this example back to former glory, you’ll have a friend for life.