1947 Citroën Traction Avant 11CL Light Fifteen
Chassis No: 127467
The iconic Citroën Traction Avant (literal translation ‘front wheel drive’) was launched in 1934 and had a long list of innovative features including front-wheel drive, hydraulic brakes, monocoque construction, independent front suspension, rack and pinion steering and torsion bars. The new and modern styling with low-slung styling devoid of running boards was in production for more than two decades.
Tractions were offered in different body types and mechanical specifications and built in France and Belgium with right hand drive cars being built at Slough Trading Estate, England. The Slough version of the 11L was called the Light Fifteen and the long wheelbase 11 was called the Big Fifteen. English cars used 12-volt Lucas electrics, headlights, dynamo and starter. The interior had a walnut dash board, with Jaeger instruments and a wool headlining. Post-war cars were updated with wing-mounted indicators and a larger boot. A 1,911 cc (116.6 cu in) Light Fifteen tested by the British magazine The Motor in 1951 had a top speed of 72.6 mph (116.8 km/h) and could accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 29.7 seconds.
This 11CL on offer here was purchased by the current owner many years ago from a renowned Adelaide collector, and has been in dry storage ever since. The odometer displaying 42,873 miles. With a strong local club movement and cult following around the world, the Traction Avant is an affordable classic car with great useability. This is a wonderfully original example that is ready for its next custodian to bring it back to its former glory.
This vehicle is sold unregistered.
