1962 Citroën DS 19 Cabriolet

1962 Citroën DS 19 Cabriolet
Coachwork by Henri Chapron
Chassis no. 4200446
•One of the first DS Décapotables with the desirable 'ashtray' wings
•Comprehensively restored in 2006 and recently serviced in Switzerland
•Semi-automatic transmission
•Certification from Noëlle Chapron in file
•Registered in Switzerland

Footnotes
Just as it had done 21 years previously with the revolutionary 'Traction Avant', Citroën stunned the world again in 1955 with the launch at the Paris Salon of the strikingly styled 'DS'. The spectacular newcomer was the work of sculptor turned automobile designer, Flaminio Bertoni, the man also responsible for such memorable Citroëns as the 'Traction', 2CV, H Van, and Ami 6.

Beneath the shark-like newcomer's aerodynamically efficient, low-drag bodyshell there was all-independent, self-levelling, hydro-pneumatic suspension; plus hydraulically-operated brakes, steering, and (optional) hydraulic semi-automatic gearbox. Displacing 1,911cc, the DS's overhead-valve long-stroke engine delivered enough power to make it one of the most capable and comfortable cruisers for years to come.

Other models offered alongside the original DS were the ID (a simplified, cheaper version), the cavernous Safari estate, and the two-door Décapotable (convertible), the latter boasting coachwork by Henri Chapron. (Chapron's first convertibles had been produced independently of Citroën, but the factory eventually gave the project its blessing). Introduced in 1960, Citroën's usine (factory) Décapotables were built on the longer, stronger chassis of the ID Break (Estate). In total, 1,365 usine convertibles were made with either the DS19 or DS21 engine between 1960 and 1971, while Chapron built a further 389 of his own, the last in 1973.

First registered on 6th August 1962, this DS19 Décapotable is one of the very early examples featuring the distinctive and rare 'ashtray' front wings and has been recently serviced by a specialist in Switzerland. The car was completely restored in 2006, when work included overhauling the hydraulic system, body panels, paintwork, upholstery, and convertible top. In 2008, the car was purchased by its immediately preceding owner, an enthusiastic gentleman racer and Citroën DS aficionado.

Bought by the current vendor in 2019, this genuine Décapotable is finished in metallic grey with Burgundy leather interior, and is equipped with the semi-automatic gearbox. Certification from Noëlle Chapron in file, the car is offered with a 2008 French Carte Grise (copy); 2011 and 2017 French Contrôles Technique, previous UK V5C Registration Certificate and a valid Swiss carte grise.

DS Décapotables represent the very best of French automotive style, craftsmanship, and technology, and the example we offer is sure to delight its fortunate next owner.

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