Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2007/07/03
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Found this post now only. Nice pics from Mark. I guess it was not him cropping the wheel away? I owned a aubergine-black, bordeaux-leathered 1973 Citroen D-Super-5 (2300ccm, 5 speeds, 145hp) for more than 10 years and I could tell a lot about these cars. But let's keep it short: The plus side was: - exclusive and aerodynamic car design for (then) low budget - outstanding technical concept with unique dashboard ergonomy, hydraulic suspension (but ok for front passengers only), movable front lights - many well thought details (like special hinge screws for adjusting the rear lid) The minus side was: - "french" built quality (pardon, mes amis ;-) - rusting issue - sea sickness issue for back seat passengers (keep barf bags handy) - many not so well thought details (like completely rusted and stuck special hinge screws for adjusting the rear lid) When I sold it in 1994, I got the double price as when I had bought it (though you could throw out cigarettes through rusted holes in the base plate). In this time most of these models went out of traffic and some spare parts became very sought after. I gave it up because my then girlfriend (now wife) complained about I would spend all weekends tinkering the car... But those who really like to tinker should try a Citroen SM with Maserati engine! That's a threat! There's a swiss DS specialist, http://citroenrestaurationen.ch/ (which is also very reputed in France and other european countries), which offers to rebuilt and customize old models, with hot zinc galvanized chassis and parts, completely restored engine with catalyzer, plastic body, new leather interior and so on. I've seen some of them, they're better than when they were new. Because they'll never rust again, are lighter, consume less fuel and produce less carbon monoxide. Didier >In today's online New York Times, some terrific shots by Mark Rabiner of a >'67 Citroen DS sedan. > >http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/01/automobiles/collectibles/01EGO.html > >Vive le champignon--and the citromatic transmission! > >Jim Shulman >Bryn Mawr, PA