The world's first mass-produced front-wheel-drive car. Also pioneered monocoque construction, independent front suspension, and hydraulic brakes in a single production vehicle. The car that made Citroen a technology leader and a gangster movie icon.
History
Andre Citroen bet his entire company on the Traction Avant. The investment in front-wheel-drive technology, unitary body construction, and hydraulic brakes was so enormous that it bankrupted the company before the car could generate profits. Michelin took over Citroen in 1934.
Andre Lefebvre engineered the drivetrain and Flaminio Bertoni designed the low, elegant body that was made possible by eliminating the transmission tunnel (no propshaft needed with FWD). The result sat lower than any competitor and handled better than anything on the road.
The Traction Avant became the car of choice for both French police and French gangsters. Its front-wheel-drive traction on cobblestone streets gave it an advantage in pursuit or escape. This dual association cemented its cultural status.
The car was produced for 23 years with minimal changes, including through the German occupation of France during World War II. The Citroen factory was seized but production continued.
759,123 were built. The Traction Avant proved that front-wheel drive was viable for mass production, directly influencing the Mini, the VW Golf, and virtually every modern car. Clean examples command EUR 20,000 to EUR 50,000.
Production & Heritage
Value estimates are editorial assessments based on recent auction results and market trends.
Technical Specifications
Engine Details
Performance
Tags
Designed by Flaminio Bertoni / Andre Lefebvre
