1969 Citroën DS 21 Decapotable by Ivanoff
1969 Citroën DS 21 Decapotable by Ivanoff
The Citroën DS is widely regarded as one of the most significant and innovative automobiles of the twentieth century, combining avant-garde styling with engineering that was decades ahead of its time. Among the rarest and most desirable derivatives is the DS Decapotable, created by Parisian coachbuilder Henri Chapron and later offered through Citroën. Rarer still are cars converted by independent coachbuilders, making this DS 21 by Ivanoff a particularly intriguing proposition for the discerning collector.
Based on the sophisticated DS 21, this elegant open-top conversion retains the unmistakable character of Citroën's celebrated design while offering the added appeal of open-air motoring. Ivanoff was one of a few French coachbuilders to undertake bespoke DS conversions and examples such as this are exceptionally scarce today. The DS 21 provided an ideal foundation, with its smooth and powerful four-cylinder engine, hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension, front-wheel drive and semi-automatic transmission combining to deliver the remarkably comfortable and effortless driving experience for which the model became famous.
This fabulous 1968 example, resplendent in red, was purchased by our vendor three years ago from a classic car dealer in Modena and imported to the UK in May 2025. Upon its arrival, it was subjected to a full inspection by a Hampshire-based classic car workshop, and after being thoroughly checked over, fully valeted and a handful of very minor parts changed, the DS 21 was ready for the road.
In 2015, under previous ownership, the car was comprehensively restored, whereupon the colour was changed to red. While in the care of a previous owner, this DS formed part of the drivers' parades at the Belgian Grand Prix on several occasions, with none other than Max Verstappen in the passenger seat! Images of the four-time Formula One World Champion waving to the crowds are available in the history file and as an added bonus, he even signed the glove compartment!
Supplied with this beautiful DS are its Citroën Heritage certificate confirming its build date of 26th February 1968 and original colour of Palladium Grey. Also present are invoices since its import to the UK, including lots of recent maintenance in February, May, and June 2025. Rare, charismatic and technically fascinating, this DS 21 Decapotable by Ivanoff represents a highly unusual opportunity to acquire a distinctive French coachbuilt automobile. Whether destined for concours presentation, continued improvement or simply leisurely continental touring, it is certain to attract considerable interest from collectors of the DS and exceptional French automobiles alike. Consigned by Charlie McCreery
Lot details
Year: 1969
Make: Citroën
Model: DS 21 Decapotable by Ivanoff
Registration: NSC 405F
Chassis No: DS214487916
Odometer: 13,197
* Rare Ivanoff-bodied Convertible
* Extensively Restored
* Glovebox signed by Max Verstappen
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