Citroën M35 classic cars for sale

History of the Citroën M35

The Citroën M35 was introduced as an experimental vehicle, targeted at a select group of customers to test the viability of Wankel rotary engine technology. Built between 1969 and 1971, the project aimed to combine the comfort and advanced suspension of the Ami 8 platform with cutting-edge rotary engine dynamics. Only a limited number of these coupés were produced, making the M35 one of the rarest Citroëns ever made. Its development marked Citroën's willingness to push technical boundaries and redefine car engineering standards in an era dominated by conventional designs.

Model History of the Citroën M35

Derived directly from the Ami 8, the Citroën M35 was never meant for mass-market production. Its foundation served as a real-world testbed for rotary engines, with the rest of its mechanical layout sharing elements with the Ami series. After the end of the project, no direct successor with a rotary engine followed, as Citroën shifted its focus, but the lessons learned influenced future engineering within the brand.

Highlights and Unique Features of the Citroën M35

The defining feature of the M35 is its single-rotor Wankel engine—an uncommon powerplant rarely seen in production cars of its time. This experimental engine, combined with Citroën's advanced hydropneumatic suspension, gave the M35 a ride quality far ahead of many contemporaries. The two-door coupé body was produced exclusively by Heuliez, distinguishing its aesthetic and construction from other Citroëns. The rarity and technical distinctiveness of the M35 set it apart from any other model in Citroën’s portfolio.

Technical Data of the Citroën M35

Special Editions and Collectible Variants

Every Citroën M35 produced is, in itself, a special edition. Limited to a small pre-series, each vehicle was given to carefully selected drivers, who tested and provided feedback directly to Citroën’s engineers. No further collectible sub-variants were officially released, as the entire model line was based on experimentation and exclusivity.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to its rarity and experimental technology, owners may face challenges in sourcing replacement parts, especially those related to the single-rotor Wankel engine and the unique hydropneumatic suspension components. Maintenance requires specialised knowledge, and the small production run means that expert repair and restoration services are essential. Potential buyers should ensure that the engine and suspension are in good working order and check for any signs of neglect in previous ownership.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With a light body and rotary engine, the Citroën M35 delivers a different kind of driving experience compared to similarly aged conventional saloons or coupés. The rotary unit provides smooth acceleration, though absolute output is modest, and the ride comfort is enhanced by the hydropneumatic suspension—a trademark of Citroën engineering. The handling is notably stable and forgiving, making it suitable for both urban and longer-distance drives. Given its exclusively experimental nature, the M35 stands alone within its own category; there are no conventional model variants or upgrades. All surviving examples offer the same distinctive mechanical and performance characteristics.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Heuliez designed the M35’s coupé body, creating a silhouette that departs from mainstream Citroëns of the era. The Ami 8 underpinnings are evident in the interior layout, but unique upholstery and dashboard details hint at the vehicle’s experimental status. The hydropneumatic suspension delivers the kind of comfort that set Citroën apart in this period, while the simple yet elegant design language keeps the focus on functionality. Special colours and bespoke trim options were rare, as each car was individually tailored for test drivers and often featured subtle distinctions in finish.

Other Notable Aspects

The Citroën M35 was provided to a group of loyal Citroën customers, who acted as real-world testers. These users gave direct feedback to Citroën’s engineering team, playing an active role in the vehicle’s development and refinement. Such an approach to product testing is practically unprecedented and adds an additional layer of historical and enthusiast interest to each surviving vehicle.

Summary

The Citroën M35 is a true curiosity in classic car history: a rotary-engined experiment with advanced hydropneumatics, constructed by Heuliez, and limited to a small number of units for handpicked drivers. Its unique combination of technology, rarity, and exclusive provenance makes every M35 a conversation piece for those interested in Citroën’s most daring innovations.