Lot 207: 1925 CITROEN 5CV TWO SEATER

Yellow with black mudguards and black interior

Engine: four cylinders, side valve, monobloc with detachable head, 55 x 90mm bore & stroke, 855cc; Gearbox: three speed gearbox, centrally positioned gearlever; Suspension: front, semi-elliptic leaf spring, rear quarter-elliptic leaf springs; Brakes: two wheel drum. Right hand drive.

A very popular small car both here in the UK, and its home country, France, and in production from 1922 to 1926, the 5CV Citroën scores because of its exceeding pretty styling - by no means usual amongst cheap light cars at the time.

According to its later buff log book this car was registered 'YB 2308' on 7th May 1925, which would have been under the auspices of Somerset County Council. In 1957 it was owned by Paul Goodenough, of Bristol, then D. Malcolm Ltd. in 1962 after which it came into the collection.

Museum stored for many years, today the car is somewhat aged in appearance. The dashboard is aluminium-covered, with some correct switches and instruments, but a period 0-80 Smiths speedometer replaces the original. An electric windscreen wiper has been added. The upholstery is in Rexine, and the canvas hood needs recovering. Under the bonnet, the diminutive engine, with 'Andre Citroën' proudly cast on the top water pipe on the cylinder head, is ready for cleaning, and a RB magneto is fitted. There is rear braking only, and the 4.50 x 19 inch wheels may well replace original specification beaded edge pattern. The original Cibié headlights were augmented for British regulations by additional sidelights - by H&B in this case. The attractive radiator retains its filler cap with the Citroën badge.