1971 Citroen DS D Super 5 from UK and Ireland - Comments

I think if you want to prove that Cadillac's contemporary ride was superior to that of the Citroen more than one magazine's opinion is needed.

Also, isn't the huge advantage of the Citroen was that it offered a great ride AND handling? After all, until recently Cadillacs were just known to be couches on wheels with handling to match.

How many magazine's opinions would it take? 5? 10? 15? For some people, no amount of opinions/road test impressions would convince them.

The huge advantage of a classic Cadillac is the great ride along with large and comfortable interior, large luggage compartment, quietness, longevity and power. Most Cadillac owners back then preferred those items to handling. However, my "couches" (Cadillacs) can easily take a corner posted at 35 mph at 45-50 mph. They actually handle quite well and Car and Driver magazine (March, 1965) agreed:

(Test of a '65 Fleetwood Brougham)

"The Cadillac, contrary to enthusiast mythology, handles very well. It is agile, effortless, and predictable- always going where it's pointed without any fuss or surprises. We'd like to try a Cadillac with Koni shock absorbers and larger-section tires- these two very simple changes could elevate its already-acceptable road behavior to the first rank."

I got my DS over three years ago. Its my every day car and I couldnt be happier. I've had about eight cars in all and its the only one that holds my interest - you never get bored of these cars. I took advice before buying, chose carefully and I've got a great classic which costs me less than my wifes almera to keep on the road. The experience of other DS owners is nearly always the same. It now needs a new clutch which will cost £600. I can hardly complain after having trouble free motoring for so long.

If you care anything at all about design then this is the final word. Sure there are nice modern cars about (i quite like the look of the new BMW and also the Cit C4) and some cracking classics, but to come up with a design that continuously reboots the owners interest and that of passers by takes some doing.

As much as I love the Citroen DS, I have to remind people of the Tucker Torpedo Sedan... American. While no more than 50 were built and the poor guy was put out of business, it was definitely the first with four wheel discs, a swivelling head light in addition to other things including standard seatbelts. This was all in 1948. I have no biases (Canadian) and love the DS (really do), however the truth must be told.

I'd like to know if anyone can give me some advice on where to buy a Citroen DS. I absolutely love the car, and want to use it daily, rather than just keep it polished in the garage. Are there better models than others, things to watch out for. Can anyone recommend a good place to buy one from? I think they are also beautiful cars, well ahead of their time.

Many Thanks.