The 1948 Citroen 2CV, with its trademark corrugated steel bodywork, was an economy car designed to put rural France on wheels after the Second World War. In all respects, the car was uncompromisingly basic, so as to keep servicing easy and running costs low. Its willing twin cylinder, 375 cc, air cooled engine delivered an impressively economic 56 mpg (5 liters/ 100 km), and could just about squeeze out 43 mph (69 km/h), although that dropped to 37 mph (59 km/h) with four people aboard. Still, slow as it was, the 2CV was considerably more comfortable than many bigger, faster competitors, with superbly practical hammock type seats that could be lifted out to accommodate extra loads, and an excellent soft ride that took rutted frame tracks in its stride. The all independent suspension was designed to supple enough to transport basket of eggs ploughed grassland without infringement a single one. Huge body roll was the inevitable result of spirited cornering in the 2CV, but front wheel drive meant it gripped beautifully. All the body panels detached easily as well, and the fabric roof rolled back to allow very pleasant open air motoring, or to cater for times when there was a tall load to carry.
The car was a great success and remained in production, eventually with 602 cc engine unit 1990, having spawned many derivatives on the same theme, most memorable the Dyane and the Ami. More than five million units were produced.
