Basic information and history

The 1974 Citroën ID 20 Break represents the end of one of the automotive world’s most iconic eras – the very last year of production. The DS/ID range revolutionised the automotive industry when it was launched in 1955 with its futuristic design, exceptional comfort and groundbreaking technology, and the Break estate variant has always appealed to enthusiasts. 1974 was the last year of production for the Break model, which is now particularly sought after by collectors.

This example was sold new in Sweden and has had eight previous owners. The current odometer reading is 71,070 km . The seller bought the car in 2012 and used it extensively as the family's summer car for several years, which testifies to its function and place as a true working classic. The model is a genuine ID 20 Break (last model year) with child seats under the boot floor.

The history of the Citroën Break is often linked to its appearance, space, comfort and advanced hydropneumatics – and this example bears traces of time and use, but also of ownership joy and historical value.

Fun fact: When the Citroen DS was introduced in 1955, it took the world by surprise and was ahead of its time in many respects right up until its final production year in 1975. The estate model was produced from 1959 to 1974 and was available in two versions: the Familiale with a rear seat moved back and forward-facing seats in front of them, and the Break with two side-facing child seats that could be folded out of the boot floor.

Equipment and options

• Towbar
• Original child seats (cross-facing) in the luggage compartment
• Steering wheel gear
• Four-cylinder engine (ID20)

Modifications and improvements: During previous ownership, sometime in the 1990s, a body restoration was performed where doors, drip rail mouldings and rear wheel arches were repaired and the entire car was repainted. No modern conversions or typical aftermarket modifications are noted.

Condition

Body and exterior: The exterior body has cosmetic challenges: the paint is partly matte and shows clear coat peeling, especially on the hood. Several rust spots are visible – mainly on all doors – and previous repairs have come loose. However, according to the owner, there is no rust in load-bearing parts , and the stainless steel bumpers are in good condition. A few small scratches on the windows, no stone chips. The front turn signal lenses are slightly sun-bleached.

Interior: The upholstery is original – black vinyl/gallon – but has seen better days; the door sides have come loose, the seat seams have cracked in several places. The cloth mats are intact but the rubber mats have dry cracks. The front seats have sun-bleached upholstery. The dashboard has a couple of dry cracks, the plastic steering wheel rim has bubbles and the interior door handles have pitted chrome. The headliner is directly glued to the inner ceiling and shows discoloration.

Tires and rims: The tires were approved during inspection in 2017 but have age-related dry cracks.

Mechanics and function: The engine is in good condition, starts easily and runs quietly. The gearbox shifts without problems – the steering wheel gear lever also works smoothly and no noises from the drivetrain have been reported. The brakes were good when the car was put away but probably need to be checked after standing still for a long time. The suspension feels bumpy after the hydraulic oil has been filled (the car does, however, go up to normal and high position as it should). The electronics have a fault with the light switch between low and high beams.

Service history

Serviced continuously during its current owner at Mikael Andersson in Dyvik, last service probably in 2015. After that, the car has been standing still. The car was used regularly after the renovation in the 90s until 2011 when it was only used in the summer. Unfortunately, renovation and service receipts and service records are missing. The last approved inspection was 2017-07-05 .

Regular inspections and body renovations carried out in the 90s with repainting and refreshing. Afterwards mostly aesthetically and technically maintained to function as a utility vehicle during the season.

Summary

Citroën ID 20 Break – unique and classy estate car from the last model year! An excellent project for the dedicated Citroën enthusiast, and especially for those who appreciate patina, original details and the practical and classic qualities of the station wagon. Well-preserved drivetrain, period comfort and an insane amount of character. Needs effort and love exterior and interior, but makes an excellent base for renovation, or as a rolling time capsule for those who like honest classics. The car is being sold by a private enthusiast and is an excellent opportunity to acquire a piece of French automotive history, with an exciting background and space to put your own stamp.