1974 Citroen CX Prestige review from Australia and New Zealand

Minor hydraulic leaks from time to time.

Nothing major has gone wrong in 65,000kms. Starter motor wire shorted on air con compressor bracket. Starter motor died when heat shield was removed and not replaced (my fault). Inner track rod ends dissolve if steering rack leaks. Rack was leaking when I bought the car (result of lack of use) and is only component that is difficult to reach. Contains around 20 o-rings and Teflon seals.

Trims can be exceptionally hard to find in good condition.

Definitely a car for one who can do the work themselves or who has deep pockets.

Beautifully engineered and brilliantly executed. All the regular stuff under the hood is easy to get at. Engine and gearbox are unstoppable. Open the hood, and all the components that require servicing on a regular basis are at your fingertips. Timing chain is replaced through right side wheel arch. Gearbox can be overhauled through the left. (I haven't needed to do either)

Poor acceleration, but I did come from a V8 Aussie Chrysler so that's to be expected.

This is the long wheelbase Prestige which is 10 inches longer than a Pallas, so the interior is cavernous and even the inside of the glove compartment is lined in high quality leather. The ride is incredible.

Goes around corners exceptionally well for a car of its size and age.

Good fuel economy for its size and weight, and considering how hard the engine works sometimes.

Styling polarises opinions, but turns heads wherever it goes.

Has no peers of its vintage when considering cruising ability and long distance comfort. Tropical option of dual air-con copes with Aussie summers very well.

The CX is a superb example of how novel approaches to design and function can make perfect sense once you become used to them.