A Love Story
The moment I first laid eyes on a DS, I was captivated by its unique shape. Even after years of imitation, it still commands attention today with its enclosed rear wheels, swivelling high beams that seem to follow you, and asymmetrical tyres. I soon discovered that these XAS/XVS tyres were custom-made by Michelin to align perfectly with the DS’s suspension geometry. Believe it or not, the original DS sported different-sized tyres for the front and rear!
.
A Second Life
In the 1980s, the DS, then fitted with a 2-litre engine, was passed down to me. However, age, along with irregular use and maintenance, began to take its toll, resulting in mechanical issues and blemishes appearing on the bodywork and interior. Thankfully, the underbody remained rust-free, thanks to the dry Mediterranean climate. In 1988, Tzavaras Bros., Citroën experts in Greece, carried out a major upgrade on the DS, using a donor car sourced from France. That 2,3-litre fuel-injected DS was mechanically sound but had a severely corroded underbody.
.
Driving Experiences
The DS is not just a feast for the eyes; it delivers driving and riding experiences like no other car. As you approach the DS you’ll find a relatively lightweight door that swings open to reveal a unique interior step board encircling the cabin, almost wrapping you in a cocoon of comfort. Slide into the car, and you can sink into the plush front armchairs or luxuriate on the sumptuous rear sofa. The inviting atmosphere remains intact whether you are stationary or cruising, enveloping both driver and passengers in a spacious cabin that adeptly absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
