1958 Citroen 2CV AZU Fourgonnette Registration Number: 484 ...

Hammer

£11,500

1958 Citroen 2CV AZU Fourgonnette

Registration Number: 484 XVD         
Chassis Number:  533710
Recorded Mileage: c.79,000 kilometers

Debuting in 1949, the 2CV sits side by side with the titans of early post-war budget motoring such as the Volkswagen Beetle and Austin’s Mini. The quirky 2CV provided basic transport for the rural French in a period of post-war austerity, yet was in a way a visionary product, outliving its humble beginnings to cult status as the favoured car of the environmentally concerned motorist.

Although the original 375cc air-cooled flat-twin engine grew, eventually, to 602cc, the 2CV's performance remained modest at around 70mph flat-out, not that that concerned the majority of its devotees for whom the roomy interior, full-length sunroof and frugal fuel consumption were of far greater importance. The 2CV was built in civilian, military and commercial versions, the latter - a small delivery van - being known as the 'Fourgonette'.

The 2CV Van was launched in 1950 as the AU. In 1954 the engine was uprated from 375cc to 425cc, and the model renamed AZU. This model was to remain in production until 1972, with many detail changes over the years, and was the last A-Series to keep ‘old-style’ mechanicals, with 425 engine and chassis-mounted pedal gear.

This French-delivered 1958 Fourgonnette arrived on British shores in 1984. As was fairly common in the 1950s and 60s, the van has been modified with six additional “Weekend” side windows for occupants in the rear. The 2CV enjoyed a comprehensive restoration during 2018 by marque specialist Mark Griffin, finished in a typically austere 1950s shade of battleship grey with checked interior seating. This restored van presents very nicely with no obvious mechanical faults other than a pair of slightly lazy windscreen wipers. The most recent MOT test, conducted on 26 April 2022 at approximately 76,940 kilometers, resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories. 

Accompanying the vehicle are a copy of the maintenance handbook from the period, a copy of the French Certificat D’immatriculation, UK V5C, a spare wheel, photos of the restoration, and maintenance invoices. Other than a fairly recent oil change, in 2022 the carburettor was rebuilt, also the ride height and brakes adjusted. The chassis has been Waxoyled to protect against the elements.

A super little van, this charming 2CV provides fantastic fun for the Citroen enthusiast, or alternatively an interesting and unusual way to promote your small business.