Citroen 2CV

Road Test: 1978 Citroen 2CV
A design brief was set in the 1930's for 'an umbrella on 4 wheels' that would allow small scale farmers to take their produce to markets, travelling across muddy fields and unpaved roads.
Outbreak of war delayed the 2CV's development, it wasn't unveiled until the 1948 Paris Motor Show, hitting production soon after. Production ended in 1990, by then 8,756,688 2CVs had been born.
The first cars were powered by a 375cc flat-twin engine producing 9bhp! More powerful engines followed over the coming years, finishing with the 33bhp 602cc power plant. This week we're testing a 1978 2CV6, featuring the slightly older 28bhp 602cc engine.
Looks:
With its iconic cute appearance, it would take a heart of stone not to smile when you see this mean green machine pass by.
The car we tested featured the vinyl roof, allowing you to either fold back halfway or to roll it back fully like a tin of sardines.
Inside there is plenty of space, aided by the lack of transmission tunnel. If you're still looking for more room, every seat can be removed in a matter of seconds. I've been told that the lightweight seats make for very comfortable picnics in the summer!
The side windows are hinged horizontally, occasionally opening when slamming the door shut. Further ventilation is provided by the vent flap above the dash similar to a Land Rover Defender.
Driving:
Having been converted to electronic ignition, this car bursts into life much easier.
When ready to move on, the 4-speed box is engaged by twisting the gear shifter situated in the dash.
On the road, all of the 29bhp is required to keep up with traffic. It'll never set a lap record around Silverstone, but to be quite honest, from inside you couldn't give a care in the world. On the right country road, roof down and the 602cc 2-cylinder motor thrumming in front, its hard to think of a motoring experience that tops it.
The sophisticated suspension is just as unusual as its styling - if you get time, look it up on the net. The 2CV was designed to be able to cross a ploughed field without breaking any eggs, its ride quality actually puts most modern cars to shame. Soft suspension does make for some interesting corners though - lean-angles are similar to those of a motorbike, making you feel like knee-sliders are required for roundabouts!!
Stopping this Citroen is not as bad as you might think, helped by its low weight and its conversion to disc brakes at the front.
Stats:
Power: 29bhp
Weight: 585kg
0-60: 31.7secs
Top Speed: 71mph
Economy: 45mpg combined
Costs:
It's very rare to find a 2CV being offered for less than £3,000. If you do come across one, be prepared for some restorations.
Pristine example of the 1950's models will command a figure very close to £12k.
Whatever you purchase one for, don't expect to lose money when (if) you decide to sell.
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/ 12grandauto

[@jaggass]

they are as fragile as bacofoil but you can do 70mph when the engine is flat out and it wont blow up.