1947 | Citroën Traction Avant 11 BL

When the Citroën Traction Avant was launched in 1934, it created something of a motoring milestone bringing together, as it did, several up to date technological features in one mass-produced vehicle. The combination of front-wheel drive together with fully independent suspension and rack and pinion steering in a monocoque body created a striking low-profile appearance which looked quite different to most contemporary saloons.

Initially powered by a 4-cylinder 1300 cc engine, this rapidly grew to 1600 cc – giving the 7CV series. A larger 2-litre engine powered the 11CV model and a 6-cylinder 2800 cc motor was introduced for the 15/6. The cost of developing such an innovative design however, crippled the company and in 1934, ownership of Citroen passed to their major creditor – Michelin tyres. This did not slow production of the model which continued to be built until 1957 (with a brief pause for the War years). The car was assembled in 4 countries other than its native France – Belgium, England, Germany and Demark - with around ¾ million in total produced.

The Citroen factory at Slough in the UK started assembling cars in 1926 and the first British-built Traction Avant model was shown at the 1934 London Motor Show. These cars were obviously right-hand drive but also featured other home-grown fittings, such as a Lucas 12-volt electrical system, Smiths (Jaeger) instruments, wooden dashboards, Connolly leather interiors and a chromed grill. They were also available in colours other than black and had different names to reflect their origin and intended country of use. The 7CV, 11CV and 15/6 became the Light Twelve; Light/Big/Family Fifteen and Big Six respectively. Over 26,000 Traction Avant cars were British built.

The Light Fifteen model offered here has the smallest chassis in the Fifteen range (the Big and Familiale models having longer and wider bodies). It was first registered new in the UK in October 1947. We have some early UK logbooks which show that it moved through the hands of a few owners in different parts of the country, until its acquisition by a Jersey-based enthusiast back in 1985. Immediately prior to this it had undergone some considerable professional restoration work, which included an engine rebuild (new pistons, liners, white metal bearings); a brake overhaul; new shock absorbers and bodywork attention which included a full re-spray in maroon and black. Unsurprisingly, given the long-term ownership of its current custodian, it has received further work over and above regular maintenance, which includes a full repaint into its current dark blue paint scheme some years ago and a gearbox refurbishment in July 2023.

British magazine The Motor roadtested a Light Fifteen in 1951 and reported a top speed of 72 mph and 29 seconds to reach 60 mph – so maybe not the quickest of vehicles, but an excellent ride and good handling for a pre-War design. This Light Fifteen benefits from some owner upgrades – it has twin Solex carburettors fitted and a larger crownwheel and pinion, raising both top speed and acceleration. It also has a recently refurbished radiator and new silent blocks fitted. Everything works as it should and it drives very well, having been carefully maintained by its owner (who also has other Traction Avant models).

The car is structurally sound and has received some bodywork attention within the last year – namely a new boot floor and remade boot valance. The front cradle was restored and fitted with new hubs in 2024. The car presents well, but close inspection shows that the paintwork is now showing its age a little. All brightwork is present and correct, including a re-chromed radiator grill.

The interior of the Citroen is a very pleasant place to be, with patinated but comfortable red leather seating. New carpets and a new headlining were fitted in 2024. The wood trim is all in good condition and the dash is complete. The car has an original sliding sunroof and seatbelts are fitted front and rear. A (relatively) modern radio cassette player and roof aerial have also been fitted.

This car is a very presentable, Slough-built ‘Reine de la Route’ in good mechanical order with useful upgrades. Having a right-hand drive layout gives it extra practicality for the British market and it is perfectly setup for regular use. The owner reports that he even has a bespoke roof rack for the vehicle!

We have some UK history for the Light Fifteen, but the car is currently Jersey registered, although it does not currently carry the 3-digit number pictured. We can assist with shipping and importation processes if required and can ship worldwide.