Basic information and history

The Citroën DS 23 Break is an icon among classics. The DS series was introduced in 1955 and set new standards for comfort, technology and design, and was quickly nicknamed the goddess, after the French pronunciation of DS (déesse). The model designation DS 23 meant the top model with the largest engine and several improvements, not least with the advanced gas-hydraulic suspension and, for the time, modern five-speed manual gearbox. The Break version combines the futuristic lines of the DS with a large load capacity, which made the model popular both as a family car and a practical towing vehicle.

This example was sold in Sweden and has been used as a summer car for four years. The current odometer reading is 33,780 km (the odometer has probably been turned), and the vehicle has had a total of eight users. The seller discovered the car in southern Sweden and describes it as an obvious companion on trips to Gotland. It has, among other things, transported a flagpole on the roof and acted as a tow truck for a skylift.

The car is decommissioned and has not passed the latest inspection. See further under condition and service history.

Equipment and options

• 5-speed manual transmission
• Fabric upholstery
• Hydropneumatic suspension
• Optionally equipped with a towbar

The DS 23 Break comes standard with the more expensive fabric upholstery and 5-speed gearbox. This example is also equipped with a towbar. No modifications beyond normal maintenance and previous renovation of the body, roof and seals.

Condition

Body and exterior: The car has previously been rust-repaired and the bodywork is sound, but some rust has returned in the doors, rear wheel arches, the luggage compartment by the child seats and under the windshield. The fenders and tailgate are in good condition without major rust. Several panels have dull areas and cracks in the paint, but no dents or major scratches.

Glass and details: The glass surfaces are in good condition with only minor scratches. Both chrome, moldings and emblems are generally fine. Door handles show some chrome wear and the front turn signal glass is slightly sun-bleached. The car has stainless steel bumpers in good condition and complete headlight lenses.

Interior: The delicate fabric upholstery has been protected by a custom-made cover and is very well preserved. The door sides show signs of use, with wear on the driver's door fabric by the window crank. The fabric headliner is intact but sagging slightly. The steering wheel and controls are in good condition but the steering wheel rubber has the typical DS bubbles and the turn signal lever has oxide. The door handle chrome is worn and the driver's door inner handle does not work.

Tires and rims: Installed tyres are of the correct type and dimension but are aged and dry.

Mechanics and function: The engine starts easily and runs well throughout the entire range. The brakes work smoothly and effectively. The gearbox is quiet and all five gears engage without problems, the clutch works as it should. Some noise from the front right (probably the driveshaft) when the steering wheel is turned fully. The only thing that doesn't work is the light switch between different low, high and parking lights.

Service history

The car has previously been both rust-repaired and repainted by previous owners. Among other things, the roof has been dismantled and fitted with a new seal, and the wheel arches, rain gutters and doors have been repaired. The last service was carried out in 2016 or 2017 with a change of oil, filter and ignition parts. Since then, the car has been driven approximately 1500 km. There is no service history. The last approved inspection was carried out on 2017-07-05. The car is currently out of service and needs service and some review before a new inspection.

Summary

This Citroën DS 23 Break is an honest and potent basis for a preservation or light renovation project. With its well-preserved fabric upholstery and rare station wagon design, this is a wonderful combination of comfort and function, and also Swedish-sold. The car needs an overhaul before the next inspection, but offers all the unique feel and technical finesse that only a DS can provide. An interesting chance for the Citroën enthusiast to acquire a useful, practical and characterful example of the last great DS station wagon.