CategoryAutomobiles, Classic Cars, French Automotive Founded1955 (First Model Launch)FounderAndré Citroën HeadquartersParis, France

Overview

History and Development

Types of Cars

Technology & Performance

Ownership and Brand Philosophy

Cultural Impact

References

Overview

The Citroën DS, (similar to "goddess" in French), was a front-mid-engined, front-wheel-drive executive car produced by Citroën from 1955 to 1975. Available as a fastback sedan, wagon/estate, and convertible, the DS was revolutionary for its time, known for its aerodynamic, futuristic design and innovative technology. Its hydropneumatic suspension, a first for mass-produced cars, provided unparalleled ride quality and handling, complemented by disc brakes. The 1967 Series 3 further innovated with directional headlights. Despite its high initial price (65% more than its predecessor, the Traction Avant), the DS achieved remarkable sales figures (1,455,746 units), becoming a symbol of French ingenuity and technological advancement in the post-World War II era. Its name, a pun on the French word for "goddess" (déesse), perfectly captured its iconic status.

History and Development

Unveiling at the 1955 Paris Motor Show: The DS debuted to massive acclaim, receiving 80,000 orders in the first 10 days.
Hydropneumatic Suspension: Introduced a self-leveling, fully independent suspension for an ultra-smooth ride.
Aerodynamic Design: Styled by Flaminio Bertoni, it featured a sleek, futuristic body.
Technological Firsts: Among the first mass-produced cars to use disc brakes, power steering, and directional headlights.
Presidential & Cultural Icon: Used by French presidents and featured in numerous films and TV shows.
Production Ends (1975): The Citroën CX replaced the DS, but its legacy continues.

Types of Cars

DS 19 (1955-1966) – The original model, featuring a 1.9L engine and innovative suspension.
DS 21 (1965-1972) – An upgraded version with a 2.1L engine and more power.
DS 23 (1972-1975) – The most advanced DS, with a 2.3L engine, fuel injection, and improved handling.
ID Series (1957-1975) – A simplified version of the DS, offering a more affordable alternative.
DS Pallas (1965-1975) – A luxury version with high-end materials and enhanced interior features.
DS Break (Station Wagon, 1958-1975) – A family-friendly version with extended cargo space.
DS Prestige (1958-1975) – A limousine variant, used for diplomatic and presidential transport.

Technology & Performance

Hydropneumatic Suspension – Self-adjusting ride height, providing a silky-smooth drive.
Directional Headlights (1967 Model Onward) – Swivel headlights that followed the steering angle.
Semi-Automatic Transmission – Featured a hydraulic clutch for effortless shifting.
Lightweight Body – Used aluminum panels and fiberglass for better aerodynamics.
Disc Brakes – One of the first mass-market cars to feature disc brakes for superior stopping power.
Top Speed – The DS 23 reached 188 km/h (117 mph), impressive for the era.

Ownership and Brand Philosophy

Slogan: "The Goddess of the Road" (DS sounds like "Déesse" in French, meaning goddess).
Manufacturer: Citroën
Headquarters: Paris, France
Production Years: 1955-1975
Legacy: The DS is one of the most influential cars ever made, inspiring modern luxury and technology-driven vehicles.

Cultural Impact

Presidential Car: Used by French Presidents, including Charles de Gaulle, who famously credited the DS with saving his life during an assassination attempt.
Film & TV Appearances: Featured in James Bond films, The Mentalist, and The Day of the Jackal.
Design Icon: Housed in modern art museums, including the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
Collectors' Favorite: Well-preserved DS models are highly sought after, with some selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Inspiration for DS Automobiles: Citroën’s premium sub-brand, DS Automobiles, draws design cues from the original DS.