Citroën presented the DS for the first time at the Motor Show in 1955. The least we can say is that it made an impression! So much so that, on October 7, 1955, the day of its first presentation, 12,000 “flying saucers” had already been ordered!
But why did this “superlative object” car, as Roland Barthes* wrote, make such a splash until it became THE mythical French car, and still won 3rd place in the International Competition for the Car of the Century? , behind the Ford Model T and the Mini?
Just his name borders on genius! Yes, the “D” refers to an engine, but the addition of the “S” made it… a goddess.
Comfort and beauty:
It was designed by a sculptor and two engineers who gave free rein to their creativity and know-how on its taut line, which was very daring for the time. The very long bonnet, the rear flashing lights placed high in the extension of the roof, resembling mini-jet engines; on the muzzle with a sympathetic and dignified face; the futuristic Star Trek-style dashboard, and the surprising design of the single-spoke steering wheel (first designed for driver safety). Comfort and handling are just as exceptional. The DS is the first Citroën to offer hydraulic suspensions: guaranteed comfort… seasickness too, when you had the misfortune to be seated in the back (detestable experience… It’s a real experience!). Because it offered the benefits of a bourgeois car under its revolutionary exterior, the DS was a great success with senior executives and political figures. Over the years and its variations, its use has diversified. Break, it became ambulance or hearse. Michelin has designed a DS centipede with 10 wheels! for carrying out pneumatic tests, etc. A political and cinematographic car Henri Chapron remains the coachbuilder who contributed the most to the DS; he created the first cabriolet, coupes with a nervous line, less “cushy”. It was also he who made General de Gaulle’s special DS in 1968, extended to 6.53 m. It is also a DS which “saved” the General’s life during the Petit Clamart attack thanks to its exceptional road holding… and the equally rare composure of its driver.
Click here to discover the full article in the latest Vie Senior #37 (Dijon edition).
Click here to read the full article in the latest Vie Senior #37 (Langres edition).
