Citroën Type 45 classic cars for sale

Introduction and history of Citroën Type 45

Introduced in the late 1940s, the Citroën Type 45 was Citroën’s answer to the growing demand for reliable medium-duty lorries in the post-war period. This model was built not only for French use but also saw original registration in countries like Spain, underlining its robust reputation across Europe. Its combination of durability and distinctive design made it quickly identifiable amidst the era’s utilitarian trucks. The Type 45 was often used by small businesses, transport companies, and craftsmen, and original examples are now exceedingly hard to come by due to the typical high mileage and work-related wear these vehicles endured.

Model history

The Type 45 succeeded previous Citroën utility vehicles, marking a step-change with its increased engine power and sturdier chassis. Its six-cylinder petrol engine was adapted from the proven Citroën 15 Six saloon engine but enlarged for commercial use, allowing for greater load capacity. Production continued through the late 1940s, and the Type 45 became an important part of Citroën’s reputation for building durable, dependable commercial vehicles. No direct successor carried the same lineage until much later when Citroën re-entered the lorry market with new approaches.

Highlights of Citroën Type 45

Few lorries from the late 1940s combine engineering substance with this level of visual flair. Noteworthy features include the distinctive Art Deco patterns in the cab, the potential presence of a wooden loading deck original to the period, and a uniquely preserved patina from decades of honest use. The engine is a straight-six originally based on passenger car technology, but with increased displacement for heavy-duty work. Most surviving examples retain authentic details, such as hard-to-find untouched interiors and factory coachwork.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While the Type 45 was not produced in mass-market special editions, certain surviving vehicles stand out because of unique coachbuilt bodies, rare original Spanish registrations, or preservation in an unrestored, original state, including the presence of a complete, period-correct wooden load bed.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Given the age and rarity of the Citroën Type 45, buyers should pay particular attention to the condition of the wooden load area—these are often in need of repair or replacement due to age. Mechanical parts, especially those specific to the enlarged straight-six, are rare and sourcing them requires specialist knowledge. It is not uncommon to find that unrestored trucks, though original, may need significant revitalisation of the drivetrain and chassis, especially after decades with little use.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The enlarged six-cylinder petrol engine provides reliable torque for a vehicle in its weight class and era. Despite its size, the Type 45’s derived passenger-car engine makes it surprisingly smooth to drive, while the traditional manual gearbox is robust but demands period-correct driving technique. The suspension is simple but functional for load-carrying on mid-century European roads. • Citroën Type 45 with the original six-cylinder petrol engine, especially in unrestored, patina-rich condition, are favoured among enthusiasts for their authenticity and mechanical soundness when maintained.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Citroën Type 45 features’s interior can include notable Art Deco motifs, reflecting period styling not usually found in commercial vehicles. Coachwork styles vary, often custom-built to suit individual transport tasks, ranging from closed vans to flatbed trucks with wooden cargo beds. These wooden beds, when original, are now rare and highly valued. Many Type 45s display a unique patina—a testament to years of genuine use. Accessories, such as authentic period fixtures and switchgear, enhance historical value and collectability. Factory paintwork, special colours, and original French or Spanish license plates may further distinguish individual vehicles.

Other relevant features

Some Type 45s remain unrestored, offering preservationists a rare glimpse into post-war truck manufacturing without modern alterations. Vehicles with full documentation of Spanish origin or those that have never been restored are particularly sought after by marque specialists.

Summary

The Citroën Type 45 bridges commercial utility with unique historical and design elements, featuring a rare six-cylinder petrol engine derived from passenger vehicles and coachwork that captures the spirit of late 1940s Europe. Surviving examples are exceptionally scarce and often tell the story of decades of industrial use, making each Type 45 a unique discovery for collectors interested in authentic, unrestored classic trucks.