History of the 2CV: a legend on two wheels

Unusual specifications (The 1930s)

It all began in the 1930s with the "TPV" (Très Petite Voiture) project. The specifications imposed by Citroën were disarmingly simple yet formidable:

• The load: Carry two people and 50 kg of potatoes at a speed of 60 to 65 km/h.
• Robustness: Be able to cross a plowed field with a basket of fresh eggs in the trunk... without breaking a single one!
• Simplicity: Lightweight, economical, it had to be driveable by a novice driver and cover 50,000 km without replacing a single part. Aesthetics mattered little.

Ready to be presented on September 2, 1939, the first model was abruptly halted by World War II, which broke out the next day. It wasn't until 1948 at the Paris Motor Show that the 2CV was finally revealed to the public.

More than 5 million smiles worldwide

Success was instant and global. Production lasted for decades: the last French Deuche rolled off the Levallois-Perret factory line in 1988, and the ultimate global model was assembled in Portugal on July 27, 1990.

In total, over 5 million vehicles were sold in more than 90 countries across 4 continents! Over the years, it evolved while keeping its soul: door hinge modifications, headlight shapes, "trucker-style" steering wheel, and iconic limited editions like Spot, Dolly, 007, or Charleston.

A Pop Culture Icon

The 2CV is not just a car; it's an international star. It left its mark on cinema and popular culture:

• In cinema: Companion of Bourvil and Louis de Funès in Le Corniaud or Les Gendarmes, it even enjoyed a legendary car chase with James Bond in For Your Eyes Only.
• In daily life: It crossed generations in comic books (like Boule et Bill), board games, and childhood toys.

The Deuche today

Today, the 2CV has become a highly desirable collector's car. While part cars can be found around €800, expect between €6,000 and €18,000 for a Deuche in perfect running condition, ready to roam the cobblestones of Paris once again.