KM: 8974 Kms
YEAR: 03/1961
COLOUR: Absinthe AC512
MODEL:
The ID19 was launched in May 1957, 18 months after the DS. ID is simpler, more reliable and 15% cheaper. Here are the exterior differences:
Smaller wheel trims that do not cover the whole wheel.
Bumpers and trim items in aluminium.
A roof in reinforced unpainted plastic resin (translucent).
Absence of vents on the front wings, as found on the DS from 1960 to 1962.
A black windscreen seal (grey on the DS).
A larger steering wheel, as the steering was not power-assisted (which became an option from March 1963).
Mechanically, everything is less sophisticated:
– The engine is less powerful: 1 911 cc, 66 Ch (about 62 bhp).
– 4 speed manual gearbox, it is never hydraulic on the ID. First gear not synchronized.
– Unassisted brakes and no distribution according to vehicle load
The first model year with a 12 volt electrical system.
Here is the “Confort” version, more luxurious than the “Luxe” version.
Rear screen of Plexiglass.
Price at the time: 11,200 Francs = 1707 euros (monthly minimum wage 284 Francs = 43 euros)
HISTORY:
Following an advert that appeared in the LVA in January 1996 (attached), I discovered this ID in a condition that was consistent with its displayed mileage. There was no evidence of wear or corrosion, the rear seat and door panels were under plastic covers, the front seats covered with Helanca covers. At the time of the purchase, I asked the vendor about the car’s history. In response, I was told that if I didn’t want to buy it, then others were waiting!
17 years later, at the time I was putting the car back in order, I made contact again with the vendor in the hope of learning more. I inadvertently spoke to his father, who told me that he was the real owner of the car. On his retirement, he had sold his Toyota garage to his son who had then sold the car as he needed the space, but without informing his father. The father explained to me that for a long time he had been very angry with his son, but in the end he was happy to learn about its fate.
He told me its history: in 1981, he had been informed by one of his clients that his neighbour did not know what to do with her deceased husband’s car. It had always been kept in a heated garage, protected by covers. Not liking Citroens, he had bought it anyway, given its exceptional condition, in the hope of using it in retirement.