Closing date July issue -> May 19
Citroën DS D Super (1973): a rolling French work of art for Sjoerd
The world of classics and vintage cars is full of stories, sometimes remarkable, like with this DS. Sjoerd had been walking around for many years with a dormant longing for a Citroën DS, for him the most beautiful car ever, with a timeless design. At an auction, he found an example with a known history that had covered 110.000 kilometers in 53 years. The reason for selling was emigration, leaving no room for the “Grande Dame”.
Who is Sjoerd?
Liveliness, inspiration, and enthusiasm—these are qualities that suit him. But he is also a driven car man with a strong technical aptitude, dedicated to technology heart and soul, both professionally and personally. No wonder, then, that he is passionate about the technology of the Citroën DS, a revolutionary car that still feels modern today. That love also extends to everything that has developed around such a classic: the development, the history, and the zeitgeist of the 70s.
The love for the DS is visible in the office. The original documentation and vehicle data of the first owner hang on the wall there, but also photos of celebrities who appreciated the DS: De Gaulle, Jacky Kennedy, Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, and Jane Birkin. Sjoerd's photo is now hanging there too.
Tribute to technology
Sjoerd: “As a tribute to the engineers, I would like to mention their innovative technology once again; that is what inspires awe and admiration in me.”
The engine is located behind the front axle, which, according to Sjoerd, contributes to better weight distribution and more stable handling. The car features hydropneumatic suspension, which is self-leveling and adjustable, with a constant ride height for comfort and grip under various conditions. The central high-pressure hydraulic system with LHM controls the suspension and brakes with a single system. Furthermore, the DS has inboard-mounted disc brakes at the front, which, according to him, contributes to less unsprung weight, better wheel control, and comfort.
According to Sjoerd, that principle of bringing the mass inwards is still reflected in Formula 1 today, where everything is done to minimize unsprung mass. He also points to the “mushroom” brake control, pressure-controlled rather than pedal-actuated, for direct and precise brake modulation via hydraulic pressure. Furthermore, he mentions the swiveling headlights, where the lighting follows the steering movement, the aerodynamic bodywork with good straight-line stability at higher speeds, the advanced wheel geometry, and the long suspension travel. For him, the modular bodywork with bolt-on panel sections and the safety-oriented interior design also contribute to the car's distinctive character.
Brilliant ideas from France
For Sjoerd, France is the land of “la belle mécanique,” the country where many early developments in the automotive field originated. Think of the ideas seen in the Traction, the 2 CV, and of course the DS. It commanded admiration. In the automotive field, according to him, France was far ahead of its time and the Citroën DS is a clear example of that.
Even for enthusiasts without technical knowledge, it remains a special car. Even as a classic, a Citroën From that era, in terms of design and construction, a jewel.
About this D Super
This is an iconic model with the renowned suspension and comfortable ride, professionally restored and documented. The car was cherished for a long time by the first owner, a butcher in France with license plate 758 GT 82. Perhaps not one hundred percent perfect, but certainly in great condition. It is evident in every detail that it has been maintained with the utmost care and love.
The atmosphere of the 70s
Sjoerd: “To me, it breathes the atmosphere of the 70s. We are going to make new memories with carefree drives to fun events. My high-quality French goddess exudes luxury. As a demanding owner, my starting point is to make the classic completely original, to roll up my sleeves, because a classic car in original condition is rare these days.”
More about Citroën DS D Super
These pieces touch upon Citroën DS D Super, or at least come close to it.
You can find more photos below.
It is wonderful that Sjoerd appreciates and honors this goddess so much! The Citroën The ID|DS Club supports many members with maintenance, parts, courses, and the like. It is also present in every region and organizes wonderful and high-quality events. The younger generations are also crazy about this vintage car!
Beautiful car! And nice to hear that you want to keep this DS original and not ruin it with modern upgrades, which undermines its value.
For those who are deterred by the difficult technique, the advice is to first try working with a for a year or so. Citroen to start driving an SM, after which the technology of the DS will undoubtedly be a breath of fresh air.
When you see what the French automotive industry is doing now compared to the performance delivered in the past, I fear for the future.
My father had one, unreliable and rusting through and through, complex to work on.
I think an ID/DS looks amazing, but personally, it would make me a bit nervous. Too much technology for my mechanical skills, although I immediately understand the infatuation.
Impossible cars to work on; the entire engine has to come out to change the timing chain.
The CX was already a huge improvement in terms of maintenance and tinkering.
That hydraulic system remains fascinating, although that is also precisely the reason why many people steer clear of it. Whoever understands it and maintains it possesses something truly special.
Sjoerd, enjoy your goddess!! I enjoyed it too many years ago and, apart from my Giulia, it is the very best memory of a car. Sold my DS to a , according to himself “Citroen driver,” and the brake mushroom, as you call it, was completely unknown to him. So I was sitting almost against the windshield during the test drive, and then the man finally admitted that he had a 2CV. Unfortunately, I heard that he had completely written off this great car in 2 weeks. I am glad that there are people who still cherish these cars and put a lot of money and time into making the roads a lot more attractive.
A DS remains in a league of its own. Even standing still, it seems to be driving.
She.....!
I had a beige '72. Transported a lot of nice girls in it. License plate "UA", 5-speed. I think it wasn't caressed enough by the next affectionate owner. Always drove it wonderfully, and had high mileage. Bought it for FL.1k.
Dream is ID 19 Pallas, grey with black leather