Following Citroën’s remarkable postwar successes with the 2CV, DS/ID 19 and 21, Ami 6, and Ami 8, company management decided to explore the possibilities afforded by the revolutionary Wankel rotary engine during the late 1960s. Based upon a heavily modified Ami 8 platform with distinctive hand-built bodywork by Heuliez, the M35 was powered by a 50 hp, single-rotor Wankel engine supplied by Comotor, a joint venture of Citroën and Germany’s NSU. Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension system was also utilized, along with the Ami 8 four-speed manual gearbox and inboard front disc brakes with drum brakes to the rear.

While production of 500 examples was initially envisioned, just 267 were built from 1969 through 1971, with loyal, high-mileage Citroën drivers selected as customers. Most left the factory in a simple gray paint finish and all were adorned by front-fender graphics declaring the model and serial number, plus a rear-window decal, translated to English, stating, “This prototype Citroën ‘M35’ with rotary piston engine is on long-term test in the hands of a Citroën customer.” After the trial, Citroën gave M35 owners the choice of keeping their cars or returning them to the company. Many customers chose to retain their cars while the returned vehicles were destroyed. According to enthusiast estimates, it is believed that only 50 to 100 examples remain in existence today.

Carrying production no. 124 of the 267 cars built, this 1970 Citroën M35 is a wonderful example of these boldly styled and well-engineered rotary-powered test cars. It was purchased in Europe in 2015 by the Mullin Collection and is accompanied by a former registration document, correspondence, and general model information.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.