Citroen : Through The Years

Important launches and model variants
Please note that as far as modern cars are concerned, there is such a proliferation of model variants - differing trim levels and mechanical specifications, some of which are specific to individual markets, that it is not practical to list them all. If you really want to know, contact your local Citroën dealer or importer! Likewise, not all limited edition models are listed. Model nomenclatures employed are those of the French domestic versions. Cars built in Slough or sold on the UK market often had totally different names, e.g. the 7CV was called the Light Twelve, the 11CV was called the Light Fifteen, the 15-Six was called the Big Fifteen. In addition, different markets often had unique model specifications - for example, the UK market only Bijou (a grp coupé on the 2cv chassis) and the DW (Manual gearbox DS). This listing provides a broad overview of the vehicles and places them within an historic chronology.

The Early Days - Pre 1930
1919 The Type A, Citroën’s first car was launched in June and is the first European mass-produced car and the first low price car to be sold fully equipped with electric starter, electric lighting, hood, spare wheel and tyre. It is also the first French car to be fitted with a steering wheel on the left. Launch price F7,950. Sold as 3 door 3-4 seat Torpédo, 3 door 3-4 seat saloon and Coupé de Ville. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1397 cc, 65 kph max speed.

1920 In April, the Type A Sport is launched - a limited edition Torpédo fitted with the engine that was to power the B 2. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 75 kph top speed.

1921 In June, the B 2 replaces the Type A and is similarly well equipped. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 72 kph top speed. This year also saw the Type A and B 2 based half tracks equipped with Citroën-Kégresse-Hinstin transmission and used in the first crossing of the Sahara in a motor car.

1922 In October, the Caddy version of the B 2 is launched Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 90 kph top speed. At the Paris Salon, the 5 CV is launched. Usually painted yellow, it gains the nickname “petite citron”. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 856 cc, 60 kph top speed.

1924 In October, the B 10 is launched, based on the chassis and mechanical components of the B 2 but fitted with an all steel body - another first for the company. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 70 kph top speed.

1925 In October, the all steel B 12 is launched. Its principle innovation is four wheel brakes. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 75 kph top speed. The 5 CV gains a third seat and becomes the Trèfle (Cloverleaf). Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 856 cc, 60 kph top speed.

1926 Launch in October of the B 14 - available as a saloon, light commercial, 2 seat decapotable, 4 seat decapotable,, 4 seat “coach”, six light limousine and seven seat “familiale”. This car proves to be one of the great successes of the era. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1539 cc, 80 kph top speed.

1927 The B 14 is replaced by the B 14F in March; this model in turn being superseded by the B 14G in October. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1539 cc, 80 kph top speed. In December, the B 18 appears, this being a wide track version of the B 14G.

1928 The B 14G Caddy - a 3 seat Torpédo Sport is launched. The Paris Salon is the venue for the launch of the C4, the replacement for the B 14G and is built as a Torpédo, 4 seat saloon, 6 seat limousine, 6 seat familiale and 2 or 4 seat decapotable. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1628 cc, 90 kph top speed. The Salon is also used to launch the C6 -the first production Citroën with a 6 cylinder engine. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2442 cc, 105 kph top speed.

1929 In April, the C6E is launched, a widened and lengthened C6. Bumpers and safety glass are standard fittings. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2442 cc, 105 kph top speed. In September, the model is further improved and redesignated C6F. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2442 cc, 105 kph top speed.

The Innovative years - 1930s
1930 At the Salon, the C4F replaces the C4 and is the first Citroën fitted with rubber engine mountings. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1628 cc, 90 kph top speed. In February, the C6 CGL is launched - an extremely elegant design. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2650 cc, 103 kph top speed. At the Salon, the C4G replaces the C4F. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1767 cc, 95 kph top speed. The Salon is also used as the launchpad for the C6G. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2650 cc, 110 kph top speed. The C4F and C6G are used as the basis for the Kégresse-Hinstin half tracks used for the Croisière Jaune across China.

1933 In April, the C4G and C6G are fitted with “moteur flottant” engine mountings. The autumn Salon sees the launch of the 8CV with unitary bodywork - the famous “Rosalie”. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 90 kph top speed. The C4 is replaced by the 10CV, fitted with the last of Citroën’s side valve engines. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1767 cc, 100 kph top speed. The C6G is superseded by the 15CV. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2650 cc, 100 kph top speed. In November, the 10L is made available - an 8 body fitted with the 10 engine and simultaneously the 15L is released, being an 8 body fitted with the 15’s six cylinder engine.

1933 The 15 is improved and redesignated 15 GL. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1452 cc, 90 kph top speed.

1934 The 8, 10 and 15 are fitted with revised, more aerodynamic bodywork. In April, the 7A (or Traction Avant) is announced - the first mass produced front wheel drive car, it is way ahead of its time in other areas too - aerodynamic body, monocoque construction, all independent suspension, hydraulic brakes, “Moteur Flottant”. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1303 cc, 95 kph top speed. In May, a new higher performance derivative is announced, the 7S. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 115 kph top speed. In June arrives the 7B. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1529 cc, 100 kph top speed. In August the 7B is replaced by the 7C. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1628 cc, 100 kph top speed. At the Salon, the 22CV is shown but was never put into production. Technical specification:- V8 cyl, 3822 cc, 140 kph top speed. Also at the Salon another new model was launched the 11 which comprised a lengthened and widened 7. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 106 kph top speed.

1935 All the Traction models acquire rack & pinion steering.

1936 The 11 is redesignated the 11B and the 11 Légère becomes the 11BL. 1938 At the Salon, the 15-Six is announced. Technical specification:- 6 cyl, 2867 cc, 135 kph top speed. 1939 The 7C Eco replaces the 7C and the 11 Perfo replaces the 11.

Post-War Austerity - 1940s
1946 The first post war Salon is used to announce the reappearance of the 11B, now re-named 11 Normale and the 15-6G. 1947 Launch of the 15-6D. 1948 The launch at the Paris Salon of the 2CV type A - air cooled engine, interconnected suspension and Citroën’s first fitting of a 4 speed gearbox as standard. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 375 cc, 65 kph top speed.

Technical Revolution - 1950s
1950 Launch of the 2CV van type AU. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 375 cc, 65 kph top speed.

1952 Traction models acquire a new enlarged boot.

1954 In May, the 15-Six is equipped with a constant height rear suspension employing hydropneumatics and is designated 15-Six H. 2CV type AZ and AZU acquires a new more powerful engine and a centrifugal clutch. The van is actually announced first, but release is delayed for fears that customers will “ruin” the petrol consumption of their cars by fitting the larger engine. It is decided that it is a risk worth taking, and the AZ car is announced too. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 425 cc, 70 kph top speed.

1955 At the Paris Salon, the DS 19 is announced - probably the most technologically dense mass produced car ever. It is revolutionary, not just in its aerodynamic shape but also for its technology, specifically the application of high pressure hydraulics to actuate the clutch, gearchange, brakes and steering plus of course the hydropneumatic suspension system previewed on the 15-Six H. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 140 kph top speed.

1957 In May, the ID 19 goes on sale - a simplified DS with manual transmission. 2 models -the Normal and Luxe. Technical specification:- (Normale) 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 130 kph top speed. Technical specification:- (Luxe) 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 135 kph top speed.

1958 In March the 2CV Sahara 4 x 4, equipped with 2 engines is launched. Technical specification:- 2 x 2 cyl, 425 cc per engine, capable of climbing a 40% sandy incline fully loaded. Launch at the Paris Salon of the ID 19 Break. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1911 cc, 130 kph top speed.

The Swinging Sixties - 1960s
1960 At the Paris Salon, the Chapron designed and built DS 19 Cabriolet is launched.

1961 Launch in April of the Ami 6, based on the 2 CV mechanical parts but with an enlarged engine and unusual styling incorporating a reverse raked rear screen. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 602 cc, 105 kph top speed.

1962 The nose of the DS is mildly redesigned resulting in an increase of top speed to 160 kph without any mechanical changes.

1963 Introduction in February of the 2CV AZA with a more powerful engine. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 425 cc, 95 kph top speed.

1964 Ami 6 Break presented at the Paris Salon - mechanically identical to the saloon, but with a slightly more conventional body style. It soon becomes the best selling car in France, a title it was to retain for several years. Introduction in September of the DS 19 Pallas with better fittings and finish. In December the 2 CV is fitted with front hinged doors.

1965 In September the new more powerful DS 21 is launched, fitted with a new 5 bearing engine. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2175 cc, 175 kph top speed.

1966 The red LHS2 hydraulic fluid is replaced by a new mineral oil - LHM in all D Series cars.

1967 In July, the Dyane is added to the range as an intermediate model between the 2CV and Ami 6, retaining the well proven chassis, 425cc engine and gearbox of the 2 CV in a completely new, hatchback, body. In September, another redesign of the D Series front end incorporating four flush-fitting, glass covered headlamps, the inner pair of which are connected to the steering.

1968 Launch of the Dyane 4 and Dyane 6 in January, using the Ami 6 602cc or a smaller, 435cc, version of this engine. Technical specification :- (Dyane 4) 2 cyl, 435 cc, 102 kph top speed; (Dyane 6) 2 cyl, 602 cc, 110 kph top speed. Launch in May of the Méhari - a completely new, all terrain ABS plastic bodied vehicle built on the Dyane chassis. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 602 cc, 105 kph top speed. In September, the DS 19 is replaced by the DS 20 Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1985 cc, 165 kph top speed. The ID 20 replaces the ID 19. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1985 cc, 155 kph top speed.

1969 In March, the Ami 8 replaces the Ami 6 with a redesigned, fastback saloon or estate body. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 602 cc, 123 kph top speed. In September, the DS 21 is made available with electronic fuel injection. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2175 cc, 188 kph top speed. The ID 20 is replaced by the D Super Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1985 cc, 165 kph top speed. The ID 19 is replaced by the D Spécial Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1985 cc, 160 kph top speed. The 2 CV 4 and 2 CV 6 are launched, using the new engines from the Dyane 4 & 6 Technical specification:- (2CV4) 2 cyl, 435 cc, 102 kph top speed; (2CV6) 2 cyl, 602 cc, 110 kph top speed.

Peugeot cometh - 1970s
1970 Launch in March of the SM Technical specification:- V6 cyl, 2670 cc, 200 kph top speed. Launch at the Paris Salon of the GS Technical specification:- flat 4 cyl, 1015 cc, 149 kph top speed.

1972 The DS 23 replaces the DS 21 in both carburettor and fuel injected versions. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2347 cc, 178/188 kph top speed. The SM is made available with electronic fuel injection. Technical specification:- V6 cyl, 2670 cc, 228 kph top speed. In September, the GS 1220 is launched. Technical specification:- flat 4 cyl, 1222 cc, 151 kph top speed.

1973 Launch in February of the Ami Super - an Ami 8 bodyshell fitted with the 1015 cc GS engine Technical specification:- flat 4 cyl, 1015 cc, 140 kph top speed. At the Paris Salon, the GS Birotor is launched. Technical specification:- twin rotor Wankel, 1990 cc (equivalent), 175 kph top speed. In September, the SM Automatique is launched. Technical specification:- V6 cyl, 2965 cc, 205 kph top speed.

1974 Bankruptcy is staved off by Peugeot purchasing Citroen from Michelin Launch at the Paris Salon of the CX 2000. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1985 cc, 174 kph top speed. The GS range is widened to include the GS X, GS X2 and Pallas.

1975 Launch of the CX 2200. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2175 cc, 179 kph top speed. Launch of the CX 2200 Diesel. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2175 cc, 146 kph top speed. C-matic semi automatic transmission made available as an option on the CX 2200.

1976 Launch of the CX Estate with a choice of CX 2000 or CX 2200 Diesel powerplants and launch of a long wheelbase version of the CX - the Prestige. Launch at the Paris Salon of the LN - a Peugeot 104ZS (short wheelbase) bodyshell fitted with the Ami 8 engine. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 602 cc, 120 kph top speed. Launch at the Salon of the CX 2400 which replaces the CX 2200. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2347 cc, 181 kph top speed.

1977 Launch in May of the CX 2400GTi - one of the first cars to bear such a badge. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2347 cc, 189 kph top speed.

1978 Introduction in February of the CX 2500 Diesel which replaces the 2.2 litre version. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2500 cc, 156 kph top speed. At the Paris Salon, the Visa is announced - two different engines, the Spécial and Club have a new enlarged version of the A series’ flat twin while the Super uses a Peugeot engine. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 652 cc, 124 kph top speed; 4 cyl, 1124 cc, 144 kph top speed. In October, the LNA replaces the LN. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 652 cc, 126 kph top speed. The FAF (Façile à Fabriquer - or easy to build) is announced at the Dakar Fair in November, based on the mechanicals of the 2 CV but with a body made from folded sheet steel which can be made without heavy plant, the car is intended for assembly in several third world countries.

1979 In May, the Méhari 4 x 4 is launched. Technical specification:- 2 cyl, 602 cc, 100 kph top speed. In July, the CX 2000 is superseded by the CX Reflex and the CX Athéna, fitted with a new engine jointly developed with Peugeot, Renault and Volvo. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1995 cc, 176 kph top speed. In December the CX Limousine (Diesel engine in the long wheelbase Prestige shell) and CX Haute Protection (Bullet & bomb proof Prestige) are announced. At the Salon, the GSA Club, Pallas and X3 replace the GS Club, Pallas and X3. Fitted with a new 1299 cc engine and a redesigned 5 door hatchback body. Technical specification:- flat 4 cyl, 1299 cc, 156 - 161 kph top speed depending on transmission.

The Modern Era begins - 1980s
1980 Launch in July of the Visa Super E and Visa Super X replacing the Visa Super. Technical specification:- (Super E) 4 cyl, 1124 cc, 142 kph top speed; (Super X) 4 cyl, 1219 cc, 155 kph top speed.

1981 In March, launch of the redesigned Visa II. In July, launch of the GSA Spéciale with 1300 cc economy engine.

1982 In July, replacement of the Reflex and Athéna by the CX 20 and CX 20 TRE and replacement of the GSA Club with the GSA X1. Also in July, launch of the Visa GT. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1360 cc, 168 kph top speed. Launch in July of the LNA 11E and LNA 11RE. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1124 cc, 144 kph top speed. At the Paris Salon, launch of the BX - two different engines and with a range of trim options. Technical specification:- (BX14) 4 cyl, 1360 cc, 155 kph top speed; (BX16) 4 cyl, 1580 cc, 163 kph top speed

1983 Launch of the Visa Convertible, based on the Super E in February. In April, launch of the CX 25D Turbo saloon and estate. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2500 cc, 174 kph top speed. In September, launch of the BX 19D powered by a new diesel engine. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1906 cc, 157 kph top speed. Homologation of 200 Visa Mille Pistes 4 x 4. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1360 cc, 170 kph top speed.

1984 Introduction in March of the Visa Diesel. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1769 cc, 152 kph top speed. In July, release onto French and other European markets of the Oltcit Axel, a GSA-powered, conventionally sprung 3-door hatchback similarly styled to the Visa, but built in Romania. Technical specification:- (Axel 11) flat 4 cyl, 1129 cc, 150 kph top speed; (Axel 12) flat 4 cyl, 1220 cc, 160 kph top speed. Launch of the Visa 14 TRS Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1360 cc, 156 kph top speed. Launch of the BX 19 GT Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1906 cc, 185 kph top speed. Launch of the CX 25 GTi Turbo Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2500 cc, 220 kph top speed.

1985 Visa GTi goes on sale. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1580 cc, 188 kph top speed. BX Sport goes on sale. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 1906 cc, 201 kph top speed. In July, the BX Break is launched. In July also, the series II CX is launched, incorporating major changes to the exterior and interior plus a new 2165 cc OHC engine for the CX 22. In November, the BX 4 TC is homologated. Technical specification:- 4 cyl, 2141 cc, 4 wheel drive Group B Rally car.

1986 Launch of the Visa 10E. Launch of the Series II BX, BX 19 GTi and BX 17D.

1987 Launch of the BX 15, replacing the Visa engine in the BX14 with a new engine shared with the AX. Launch of the AX range and BX GTI 16 Soupapes (16 Valve).

1988 Launch of the BX Turbo diesel.

1989 Launch of the BX19 4 x 4 Estate, BX19 4x4 GTi and XM.

Enter the mainstream - 1990s
1991 Launch of the ZX.

1993 Launch of the Xantia

1994 Launch of the Evasion/Synergie MPV

1995 Launch of the Saxo