Citroën Type A classic cars for sale
The Citroën Type A stands as the original production car from Citroën, made in Paris from 1919 to 1921. With fewer than 25,000 vehicles built, it represents a pioneering step in European automotive history and is now highly valued by collectors who appreciate early motoring heritage.
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Create listingCitroën Type A listing references from Classic Trader
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1919 | Citroën Type A
Citroën-A Torpedo
1920 | Citroën Type A
1919 | Citroën Type A
Oldtimer Citroen
1920 | Citroën Type A
1920 | Citroën Type A
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Create listingHistory of the Citroën Type A
The Citroën Type A marks the beginning of the Citroën automotive story. After World War I, André Citroën converted his munitions factory to focus on automobiles, seeking advice from innovative minds like Jules Salomon. The Type A was launched as a 'Torpedo Sport' saloon and became available to the public in June 1919. Imported as the first mass-produced car in Europe, it brought assembly line techniques to the French market and set the tone for modern car manufacturing across the continent. In its short run until December 1921, a total of 24,093 units were produced, making it both a technical milestone and a rare sight today.
Model History
The Citroën Type A inaugurated the company's model lineup with no direct predecessor, representing a clean-sheet approach. Its successor, the Citroën Type B2, took over after production ceased in 1921, building on the established mechanical layout and industrial know-how pioneered by the Type A. Originally available with short and long chassis options, Citroën streamlined offerings by discontinuing the short wheelbase after 1920 for production efficiency.
Highlights and Key Features
A 1,327 cc inline-four engine delivering 18 hp propelled the Type A to a then-impressive 40 mph. The rear-wheel braking system, hand lever and foot pedal controls, and innovative suspension setup with inverted quarter-elliptic leaf springs illustrated a focus on comfort and driveability rarely seen in this era. The use of original Michelin wheels with 710 x 90 mm tyres is a distinctive feature. The Type A’s affordable pricing at launch, later increased due to cost pressures, contributed to its steady sales and enabled significant production numbers.
With supply and demand shares at 100% for the model code ‘10 CV’, Type A listings dominate Citroën’s early classic portfolio, reflecting its status as the marque’s absolute foundational model.
Technical Data
Special Editions and Collectible Models
No specific limited editions of the Citroën Type A are documented; however, early examples with the short chassis, original Michelin wheels, or unrestored bodies are often treated as especially collectible due to their rarity and historical authenticity.
Engine, Transmission and Driving Experience
The 1.3-litre engine produced modest power by modern standards, but for 1919, its 18 hp output was notable for a small, affordable passenger car. The driving layout featured a three-speed manual gearbox sending power to the rear axle. The suspension provided a much improved ride for its class due to its innovative quarter-elliptic spring design. However, the braking system worked on the rear wheels only, requiring drivers to anticipate stops and adjust their driving style accordingly. Period reports suggest that the Type A handled predictably, with comfort biased over outright speed or agility. - Citroën Type A 10 CV Torpedo Sport: 1,327 cc, 18 PS, 40 mph top speed; distinctive for early mass-production, introduction of comfort-oriented suspension and period-typical rear-only braking.
Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design
The Type A reflects post-war French design priorities—functionality and modernity—wrapped in a two- or four-seat open touring body. Original models offered both short and long chassis variants, affecting interior space. Materials featured simple, robust metals and early synthetic trim, with characteristic details such as spoked Michelin wheels. No elaborate decoration or chrome trim is present, emphasising affordability and ease of production. Accessories and luxuries were limited, focusing on durability, with bespoke colours or premium elements being ordered only rarely for distinguished customers.
Other Features
Original surviving Type A cars sometimes offer historically correct accessories such as manual wipers, period-correct headlights, or tailored mudguards. Their rarity today is heightened if these elements are in original or unrestored condition.
Summary
The Citroën Type A established the brand’s presence in the automobile sector and introduced Europe to affordable, mass-manufactured motoring. With production limited to just over 24,000 units and few surviving in original condition, the Type A remains a benchmark of early 20th-century French engineering and innovation, prized by collectors who value authenticity and historical significance.