Comprehensive Guide for Prospective Citroën Traction Avant Owners
Tempting Time Capsule: How to Snag a Fantastic Traction Avant
The Traction Avant, pre-war icon, takes you for a smooth ride fit for a newer machine. Here's the lowdown on nabbing a top-notch one.
This groundbreaking car, introduced in April 1934, wasn't the first front-wheel drive vehicle - but it clocked up some major credits with its monocoque construction, overhead-valve engine, all-round torsion bar suspension, hydraulic brakes, and rack and pinion steering. Just two years after launch, this trailblazer was the world's most advanced family car.
However, the revolutionary design came with a financial catch. Sky-high research and development costs left Citroën in dire straits, and the company barely clung to life until being rescued by Michelin, one of its biggest creditors. A bitter blow came six months later, as the visionary André Citroën reportedly succumbed to his failure.
When evaluating your dream Traction Avant, two divisions are important: cars built in France and those made at Citroën's Slough plant. The latter featured leather seats, a wooden dashboard, and British accents with Lucas electrical parts and Girling brake components. These Slough-built cars, marked by chevrons mounted behind the grille, tend to rust more than their French counterparts.
Traction aficionados swear by the pre-1952 small-boot ('malle plate') cars, making them pricier than the later big-boot ('malle bombe') versions. A four-door saloon with a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine, available in the Leger (Light 15 in the UK) and larger 11CV (or Big 15), was the most common model. Additional options included long-wheelbase Familiale and Commerciale models and the 1938 six-cylinder Six model. For those seeking speed, Light 15 Roadster and Coupe models were the prize.
The Traction Avant continued to dominate, persisting until the equally revolutionary DS took the limelight in 1957, its remarkable reign temporarily interrupted by World War II.
Rusting Remedies
Slough-built cars face rust issues, especially in areas like the metal sliding sunroof and UK-style trafficator arms fitted in the B-pillars. Rust can cause water to seep into the cabin, weakening the body's structural integrity. If a car has been restored, check for signs that the seam between the roof and body has been lead-loaded and painted over – a surefire hint of originality.
Inspect sills, floor, jambonneaux, and related vulnerable areas on both sides of the car for signs of rust. If any is visible, worsening corrosion likely bubbles beneath the surface. Be wary of signs of deformation, such as doors scraping on the sills or bonded doors causing latches to bind. Rear suspension attachments at the base of the C-pillar and the front of the sill, as well as the sides of the bonnet, should also undergo careful inspection.
Repair sections are available for common rust areas, though rear wings can be expensive. If needed, some cars have been refitted with glassfiber reproductions.
Engine and Transmission
The Traction's hearty engine is surprisingly durable, weathering generic wear and tear with ease. Overhaul parts can be sourced from the Traction Owners' Club. Pay close attention to the engine's white-metal bearings, which require costly refurbishment if worn, but can be modernized with shell-type bearings from a late model 11D engine. Timely oil changes and checking for signs of worn bearings or knocking big ends are essential. It's rare for the gearbox to cause problems other than worn synchromesh, most noticeably between top and second gear on all Tractions.
Suspension, Steering, and Brakes
The Traction Avant's torsion bars and simple suspension system minimize wear and tear. The steering, offering a smooth and accurate ride, was mostly vacuum-assisted rack and pinion, save for larger models available with power steering in the 1950s. Samples of power-assisted steering show few issues, provided piping and connections aren't leaking, the pump doesn't shriek or groan, and tight spots in the steering are absent.
The drum brakes on all four corners require regular attention, so check pipes, components, and reservoirs for leaks. A trial emergency stop should easily lock both back wheels without dragging to the left or right.
Interior and Electrics
Single, Art Deco-style gauge units adorn French cars, whereas Slough cars boast individual circular dials, making them easier and more affordable to repair or replace. Seat trim kits are available for leather and cloth seats, door cards, carpets, and headlinings. British Tractions all have 12-volt electrical systems with Lucas components, while French Tractions include 6-volt Ducellier parts. Consult a professional to repair any issues.
The Last Word on Tractions
The classy, historic Traction Avant proves to be an enjoyable and easy-to-live-with classic car, given proper maintenance. With a well-maintained example, you'll enjoy excellent transportation, backed by good parts supply, enthusiastic club support, and undeniable elegance. Don't shy away from its 1930s stylings; instead, embrace its charm.
Values vary significantly between standard 1.9-liter saloon models and rarer models. Pre-1952, 'small boot' 11CVs can be found for a few thousand pounds, and a budget of £12,000 should snag a terrific example. There is minimal difference between Leger and Normale models, but post-1952 'big boot'Tractions sell for about 25% less. Slough-built Light/Big 15s are rarer, and decent examples begin at £15,000, reaching £25,000 or more for outstanding examples. Six-cylinder Tractions sell for around £30,000 for good examples, escalating towards £50,000 for top-notch specimens, and long-wheelbase Familiales or Commerciales command a similar budget. Two-door models in tip-top condition can exceed £80,000.
Timeline
1934: Traction Avant launched as a small-booted 1303cc (7CV A-C in France; Light 12 in the UK) car with an interior-accessed boot.1934: 1303cc '7A' replaced by 1529cc '7B'; October 1934 sees 7B replaced by 1628cc '7C'. November brings the 1911cc '11CV' (Light 15 in the UK) and availability in larger 'Normale' (Big 15). 'Conduite Intérieure' and 'Familiale' models added.1936: Painted front grille replaces chrome item. Headlights updated, and opening bootlid introduced.1938: 15h model launched, sporting 2867cc straight-six (15/6 in the UK), and Hatchback Commerciale with a removable rear seat debuted.1939: War begins, halting Traction production until resuming in 1946 due to product shortages and increased pricing.1952: However, when you eye the Traction Avant, don't let its 1930s styling fool you. This drivable gem is as at home in today's roads as it was in its heyday. Armed with knowledge of rust management, budget considerations, and anunderstanding of the car's unique features, you're well- tooled for sifting the gems from the duds. Happy hunting!
Traction Avant Alternatives
The DS
The Traction's successor, the *Citroën DS*, built on its strong foundation and introduced captivating innovations. The striking design, modern interior, and unrivaled ride quality, ensured its place as one of the greatest cars ever made.
The Lancia Flavia
For a true competitor from abroad, you have to travel to the 1960s. The sleek Flavia offered Lancia charm, powerful performance, and the option of coupe, convertible, and the Zagato Sport variant. These rare classics are expensive and challenging to maintain but are undeniably worth the effort.
The Traction Avant's groundbreaking design and financial challenges didn't just impact the automotive industry, but also extended to the realm of finance. Citroën's high research and development costs almost led the company to bankruptcy, requiring a financial bailout from Michelin.
Moreover, in the world of transportation, the Slough-built Traction Avant models were not only distinguishable by their British components, but also tended to suffer from rust issues, particularly in UK conditions. This is crucial information for anyone considering purchasing a Traction Avant.
