"After 18 years of secret development, the DS 19 was introduced on 5th October 1955 at the Paris Motor Show. In the first 15 minutes of the show, 743 orders were taken and orders for the first day totalled 12,000 cars. To a France still deep in reconstruction after the devastation of World War II, the DS was a symbol of French ingenuity. It was the first mass-production car with front power disc brakes. It also featured hydro pneumatic suspension including an automatic self-levelling system, variable ground clearance, power-steering, a semi-automatic transmission and a fibreglass roof which reduced weight. It also sported inboard front brakes as well as independent suspension. Despite the rather leisurely acceleration afforded by its four-cylinder engine, the DS was successful in motorsports like rallying, where sustained speeds on poor surfaces are paramount. It won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1959 and, controversially in 1966, after the disqualification of the BMC Mini Cooper team. The Citroën DS placed fifth on Automobile Magazine's '100 Coolest Cars' listing in 2005. It was also named the most beautiful car of all time by Classic & Sports Car magazine after a poll of 20 world-renowned car designers.
Originally registered on 19th August 1974, this UK supplied, right hand drive Citroën DS 23 seven seat Safari presents in splendid condition. The 2347cc engine runs well and is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. These larger engine DS models are delightful to drive, offering a good performance and a ride that is difficult to surpass. Finished in brown with light brown velour interior, this Safari offers a significant load space as well as being very stylish. Supplied with a V5C registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in October 2024, the original handbook pack and a file containing an original sales brochure, some invoices and old MoT test certificates. These Citroëns are an automotive masterpiece, offering beauty, functionality, and practicality in one package.
"