25/07/2026
For sale 1938 Citroen Traction Avant Light 15
The traction avant, French for front-wheel drive, was designed by Andre Lefebvre and Flaminio Bertoni in late 1933/ early 1934. Arguably it is one of the most influential cars ever built. Mixing technical innovation with modern dynamics, it effectively set the template for all modern family cars.
This particular traction spent most of its life in Paris until it was imported to the UK in January 2020 by a Citroen specialist in Chipping Norton.
It received a full body restoration in the 1990’s, although there are some age related marks on the body it polishes up nicely and receives much attention when taken out, it should be noted that the passenger side front door & the drivers side rear door have been re-sprayed since, although the colour is very close it is not a perfect match, it has never bothered me and certainly people do not generally notice unless it is pointed out, I am just trying to give an honest account of the cars condition.
Many upgrades have been made such as, an engine swap for a later, more powerful DS 1941cc with a SU carburettor, reportedly making 75bhp, meaning this Citroen will cruise easily at 60mph and is capable of more for motorway driving thus keeping up with modern traffic. Front disc brakes to help stopping capability with the added power. It has 12-volt electrics, it uses a more modern alternator which facilitates the capacity to use the cigarette lighter style socket discretely tucked under the dashboard so that the owner can charge a sat nav or phone etc. Also discreetly fitted with indicators. It has been fitted with adjustable electronic power steering which truly makes it a delight to drive. A temperature gauge has also been fitted to the dashboard, and underneath the dashboard a modern type battery isolator has been fitted for added security, although all four door locks do actually work.
The underside is in exceptionally good condition, I would happily put it on a ramp for inspection. All tyres are in good condition including the spare with plenty of tread. The brakes work well and the steering gives you great confidence at speed. Test drives are of course welcome.
The interior is generally in good condition, I believe it was re-upholstered some time ago. The documented history suggests that the material used to re-upholster the interior was taken from the original owner’s mother’s curtains…. how very French. However, there is a tear in the headlining over the driver’s side “B pillar” and there are some marks on the front seats and door cards however, I dare say that a professional detailer may be able to clean them up.
There is a lovely story that one of the previous owners bestowed upon me, that this car was among other Citroen cars that were bricked up behind a false wall in the Citroen factory in Paris at the time of the German advance into France at the start of the second world war in an attempt to deny the Germans of any readily available transport. However, this is just a story, and I have no proof that it happened, nevertheless it makes for good conversation at classic car events! I truly believe that you will not find a better example for the price and that this car is well worth a look.
The asking price is £21,995.00 we would take a part exchange for another classic vehicle, we prefer pre-war but would consider anything old and interesting. We are located near the village of Aberchirder, Aberdeenshire. Viewing is highly recommended and delivery can be arranged at the buyer’s expense. Please call Edward on 07778 105168 to arrange a viewing, or email [email protected]
