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Citroen 2 CV (1948-60)

Total Production: 5,114,969
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Price New: In 1948, the new price of a **Citroën 2CV** in the UK was approximately **£310**.
Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1948 and 2025, **£310 in 1948** would be equivalent to approximately **£14,500 to £15,000** in 2025.
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Citroen 2 CV (1948-60)

The Citroën 2CV is a beloved classic, but like any vintage car, it has its quirks. Here are some things to consider:
1. Electrical Gremlins: The 2CV’s electrics can be finicky due to its age. Wiring issues, faulty switches, and intermittent connections are common.
2. Weak Engines: The air-cooled twin-cylinder engine lacks power, but it’s reliable. Look out for blue smoke on startup, which could indicate worn piston rings or valve-stem oil seals.
3. Suspension Wear: The soft, linked suspension system is part of the 2CV’s charm, but it can wear out over time. Check for sagging or tired suspension components.
4. Build Quality: French-built 2CVs differ from later Portuguese ones. Inspect several examples to get a feel for build quality and suspension setup.
5. Interior Quirks: While spacious, the 2CV’s interior has its quirks, including poor forward visibility and an upright seating position.

Generations
The **Citroën 2CV** had several mechanically identical variants over its production span. These include:

1. **Ami**: Over 1.8 million produced.
2. **Dyane**: Over 1.4 million produced.
3. **Acadiane**: Over 250,000 produced.
4. **Mehari**: Over 140,000 produced.

In total, Citroën manufactured almost **9 million** 2CVs and its derivative models². The 2CV platform spawned many variants, collectively known as the **A-Series**.
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Body Styles/Variants
The **Citroën 2CV** was primarily produced in a **fixed-profile convertible** body style. It featured a full-width, canvas, roll-back sunroof that accommodated oversized loads and extended almost to the car's rear bumper until 1955³. Additionally, there were several mechanically identical variants and derivatives based on the 2CV platform, including the **Ami**, **Dyane**, and **Acadiane**¹. These models shared the same basic chassis and drivetrain but had distinct body designs and features. Overall, the 2CV family was produced in over **9 million units**.
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Trim Levels
The Citroën 2CV, produced from 1948 to 1990, had several trim levels and variations over its long production run. Here are some of the notable ones:

1. **2CV Type A**: The original model introduced in 1948, featuring a 375cc engine and very basic equipment.
2. **2CV AZ**: Introduced in the mid-1950s, this model had a more powerful 425cc engine and some additional features.
3. **2CV AZAM**: A more luxurious version of the AZ, with chrome trim and improved interior features.
4. **2CV 4**: Introduced in 1970, this model had a 435cc engine and was known for its simplicity and reliability.
5. **2CV 6**: Also introduced in 1970, this model featured a 602cc engine, providing more power and better performance.

Throughout its production, the 2CV also saw various special editions and limited-run models, often with unique features or styling elements.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Citroën 2CV** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **The 2cv Shop**:
- They are one of the UK's friendliest and most experienced Citroën 2CV specialists.
- The 2cv Shop rebuilds, repairs, and services 2CVs.
- They also offer parts and spares, including the renowned Mehari Club Cassis parts (exclusive UK and Ireland distributor).

2. **EU-SPARES**:
- Provides OE branded parts for Citroën 2CV.
- Free delivery on orders over £140.


3. **AutopartsPro**:
- Offers new 2CV parts online at competitive prices.
- Fast and free shipping available.
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Specialists


o **NORTHERN IRELAND CITROEN SPECIALISTS**

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
o - **Address**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o - **Phone**: 028 9335 4911
o - **Services**: They offer a range of services including maintenance, repairs, engine diagnostics, and more.

o 2. **Citroën Ireland Team**
o - **Address**: 206 Straid Road, Bushmills, Co Antrim, BT57 8XJ
o - **Phone**: 028 2073 3300
o - **Services**: They provide comprehensive services for Citroën vehicles.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **McMullan Auto Services**
o - **Address**: 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN
o - **Phone**: 028 3753 1766
o - **Services**: They offer car servicing, maintenance, diagnostic services, MOT testing, and repairs.

o 2. **Roadside Motors**
o - **Address**: 71 Belfast Road, Craigavon BT66 7JP
o - **Phone**: 028 3832 3232
o - **Services**: They provide sales, repairs, and refurbishment of Citroën vehicles.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Donnelly Citroën Bangor**
o - **Address**: 3 Green Road, Bangor, Newtownards BT23 7PZ
o - **Phone**: 028 9124 0676
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **Clifton Motors**
o - **Address**: 2 Balloo Drive, Bangor BT19 7QY
o - **Phone**: 028 9145 4304
o - **Services**: They provide vehicle repairs and servicing.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Nixon Car Spares**
o - **Address**: 2 Drumcoo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 4FY
o - **Phone**: 028 6632 4737
o - **Services**: They offer a range of services including new and used car parts, vehicle dismantling, and motor factor services.

o 2. **Fermanagh Motors**
o - **Address**: 1 Tempo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HR
o - **Phone**: 028 6632 2333
o - **Services**: They provide comprehensive vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **J.C. Halliday & Sons**
o - **Address**: 10 Courtauld Way, Eglinton BT47 3DN
o - **Phone**: 028 7181 1470
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **Lloyd Cooke Motors**
o - **Address**: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o - **Phone**: 028 7130 2100
o - **Services**: They provide vehicle maintenance, car bodywork repairs, and accident repair services.

o Here are a couple of Citroën specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Donnelly Citroën Dungannon**
o - **Address**: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon, BT71 7DT
o - **Phone**: 028 8744 0484
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **ClickMechanic**
o - **Service Area**: Various locations across Northern Ireland, including County Tyrone
o - **Website**: [ClickMechanic](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/citroen)
o - **Services**: They provide mobile mechanics who can come to your location for repairs and servicing.
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Racing
The Citroën 2CV has a rich history in racing, particularly in endurance and rally events. Here are some highlights:

1. **2CV Cross**: This is a form of off-road racing that started in France in the early 1970s. It involves modified 2CVs racing on dirt tracks, and it quickly became popular, leading to the establishment of a national championship.

2. **24-Hour Races**: The 2CV has been a part of several 24-hour endurance races. The first 24-hour race for 2CVs in the UK and Ireland was held at Mondello Park in 1990. This event later moved to Snetterton in Norfolk and then to Anglesey in North Wales.

3. **Historic Rallies**: The 2CV participated in notable long-distance rallies such as the 1970 Paris-Kabul-Paris Rally, the 1971 Paris-Persepolis Rally, and the 1973 Africa Rally from Abidjan to Tunis.

2CV Cross racing is an exciting and unique form of motorsport that involves modified Citroën 2CVs competing on off-road tracks. Here are some key details:

### Origins and Development
- **Beginnings**: 2CV Cross racing started in France in the early 1970s. It quickly gained popularity due to the 2CV's lightweight and durable design, which made it well-suited for off-road racing.
- **UK Introduction**: The first 2CV Cross event in the UK was organized by the Hants and Berks Motor Club in 1975 at Blackbushe, with support from Total.

### Racing Format
- **Tracks**: The races are held on dirt tracks, often with challenging terrain that tests the drivers' skills and the cars' durability.
- **Cars**: The 2CVs used in these races are heavily modified for performance and safety, including reinforced chassis, roll cages, and upgraded suspension systems.

### Popularity and Community
- **Clubs and Championships**: There are dedicated clubs and championships for 2CV Cross racing, such as the Classic 2CV Racing Club in the UK, which organizes events and maintains a strong community of enthusiasts.
- **24-Hour Races**: One of the highlights of the 2CV racing calendar is the 24-hour endurance race, which tests the limits of both the cars and the drivers.

2CV Cross racing remains a beloved motorsport, known for its friendly atmosphere and the unique charm of the iconic Citroën 2CV.

These events highlight the 2CV's versatility and durability, making it a beloved car in the racing community.

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