Citroen Traction Avant 11CV Normale
The Citroen Traction Avant (literally 'front drive') was one of the most revolutionary cars ever made. Launched in 1934, it was the first mass-produced car to combine front-wheel drive, a monocoque (unibody) construction, and independent front suspension — technologies that wouldn't become standard in the industry for another 30 years. Andre Citroen bet his entire company on the Traction Avant, commissioning Andre Lefebvre and Flaminio Bertoni to create a car that leapfrogged every competitor. The result was a low, sleek sedan with a flat floor (no transmission tunnel), excellent ride quality from its torsion bar suspension, and remarkable road-holding from its front-wheel-drive layout. The car was available in several variants: the light 7CV, the popular 11CV (Normal and Legere), and the powerful 15CV with a six-cylinder engine. The Traction Avant became the car of choice for French gangsters, police, and the Resistance alike — its speed, handling, and spacious interior made it versatile. In World War II, the French Resistance used Tractions extensively, and the Gestapo commandeered them. Production lasted 23 years and over 759,000 units, during which the Traction Avant influenced every front-wheel-drive car that followed. It remains an enduring symbol of French automotive genius.
Body and structural rust is the main concern with unibody construction. Check floor, sills, A-pillars, and rear quarter panels. 11CV is most common and practical. 15CV six-cylinder is most desirable. Cabriolets extremely rare and valuable. Parts available through strong club network.
Over 759,000 built from 1934 to 1957. Available as 7CV (1.3L), 11CV (1.9L), and 15CV (2.9L six). Bodystyles: Normale, Legere (lighter), Familiale (long), Commerciale, Cabriolet. Also assembled in Belgium, UK, and Germany.