Other models Citroën

Having produced everything from popular models like the 2CV to luxury sedans like the DS and even a grand touring coupe, the SM, the value of classic Citroëns spans a wide range of prices. According to the LVA price guide, the 2CV family ranges from €6,000 for a late-1960s AZ-A to €85,000 for the extremely rare four-wheel-drive Sahara version. As for the DS, while entry-level sedans of the restyled version barely exceed €10,000, the finest convertibles can approach €200,000. Finally, an SM can be yours for €40,000.

Among contemporary Citroëns, the CX and GS have their fans and are becoming increasingly sought after. The large sedans from the 1990s and 2000s, the XM and C6, are beginning to attract the interest of collectors, as are certain sporty models such as the Visa Mille Pistes and the BX 4TC. Now over 30 years old, the Xantia Activa, with its active anti-roll system, is increasingly in demand.

As the world's most collected brand, Citroën has built its legacy around four iconic models: the Traction, launched in 1934; the 2CV, introduced in 1948; the DS from 1955; and the SM, produced from 1970 to 1975.

Acquired by Michelin in 1934, Citroën came under Peugeot’s control in 1974 and became part of the PSA Group. Today, the brand is part of the Stellantis Group, formed in 2021 through the merger of PSA and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.

During a trip to Poland, André Citroën discovered the herringbone gear mechanism and purchased the license to incorporate it into his factory. He chose this symbol as the logo for his brand when he began manufacturing automobiles.

After acquiring the Mors automobile manufacturer, André Citroën founded his own brand in 1919 and led it until 1934.

Since classic Citroëns vary greatly from one another, each model requires its own specific checks. For example, a 2CV or an Ami 8 won’t require the same level of attention as an SM, but all must still be carefully inspected before you commit to a purchase.

• Vehicle history: Check that the service record is complete and that all maintenance has been performed by qualified workshops or within the manufacturer’s official network. Ideally, you should have a documented history dating back to when the car left the factory.
• Overall condition and specific inspections: A thorough inspection by a specialist in the brand may be necessary, particularly for models with hydropneumatic suspension (DS, ID, GS, SM, CX), which require specific expertise. This is even more true for models with rotary engines (M35 and GS Birotor). Given the age of these cars, however, the primary concern is potential corrosion of the bodywork and certain structural components.
• Maintenance and repair costs: While two-cylinder models are very simple and inexpensive to maintain, this is not the case for the DS, SM, and CX, whose technical complexity can result in higher-than-average maintenance or repair costs.
• Reliability and risk factors: While generally quite reliable, Citroëns may have specific characteristics that require your attention. For example, the SM’s V6 engine requires special care for maintenance and to ensure reliability, while the condition of the hydraulic system must be a mandatory prerequisite for models equipped with it.

By following all these precautions, you can protect yourself against potential disappointments that might arise from a hasty purchase decision.

To learn more about the different models and choose the one that best suits your needs, feel free to request a custom search.