Description
REGARDEZ-MOI !
Styled by Italian sculptor and industrial designer Flaminio Bertoni, the DS broke away from the boxy, conservative shapes of the 1950s and 1960s, instead opting for an aerodynamic, streamlined profile that gave it an almost spaceship-like appearance.
The smooth curves, low-slung body, and long wheelbase contributed to a design that was as functional as it was beautiful, helping to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency at a time when such concerns were rarely prioritized.
The DS 23 Pallas was equipped with Citroën's famous hydropneumatic suspension system (Boîte de Vitesses Hydraulique), which offered an unparalleled level of comfort and ride quality. The system automatically adjusted the suspension based on road conditions and load, allowing the car to glide effortlessly over bumps and rough surfaces.
A firm favourite here at Ranmore especially so when in such superb order as this late DS23 EFI is most certainly is.... let us not forget, this a "Pallas" version too, which adds another level of opulence to an already fabulous interior.
Incidentally, it was named "Pallas" after the Greek goddess of wisdom !
This particular DS 23 EFI was delivered by Wingrove Motor Company of Newcastle to its first keeper on 1st November 1973.
Jump forward some thirty years, and the renowned DS expert, Dennis Spencer who runs the highly regarded Centreville DS Ltd, was now the custodian and deemed the car ripe for restoration.
His attention to detail is legendary, insomuch there's a note on file that mentions that all bolts used in the restoration had chevrons on them !
Evidently the works were immense, but pleasingly, the engine and gearbox are original items but have been completely overhauled/ rebuilt.
Driving is a delight, made immeasurably easier by the semi-automatic gearbox, which once you've settled, is perfectly intuitive.
The cabin is simply stunning with the sumptuous unmarked cognac leather looking almost new, amazing really, given its original and 52 years old.
Although leaving the factory in plain white, Dennis repainted it in "Blanc Carrare", which has a gentle and attractive light green hue in certain lights.
The current keeper, the 6th owner, has maintained it regardless of cost and used has throughout Darrin Brownhill at Citroen Classics in Staines for servicing.
Needless to say, it has new tyres and a correct exhaust system fitted and everything works as it should. In fact, there's even a service booked with Darrin in October, which will be honoured should it be happily ensconced in your garage before then!
There's simply nothing not to like, even the two beautiful 1960's Bourbon DS key rings that accompany the oddly shaped master key add a certain "je ne sais quoi"!
It would be a pleasure to answer any questions you might have. However, to really appreciate this Citroen, it needs to be seen “in the flesh”, so do please call me directly on the details below to arrange a viewing.
