Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Citroen DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19 (78 Hp)
Overall Rating
Citroen DS:
The Citroën DS is a front mid-engined, front-wheel drive executive car manufactured and marketed by Citroën from 1955 to 1975, in fastback/sedan, wagon/estate, and convertible body configurations, across a single generation comprising three series.
Marketed with a less expensive variant, the Citroën ID, the DS was known for its aerodynamic, futuristic body design; unorthodox, quirky, and innovative technology. It set new standards in ride quality, handling, and braking, thanks to both being the first mass production car equipped with hydropneumatic suspension, as well as disc brakes. The 1967 Series 3 also introduced directional headlights to automotive mass-production....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Cabriolet Chapron Overview:
Citroen DS (I Cabriolet Chapron). With 139 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1295 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
19 (78 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Slightly less powerful than its 83 Hp counterpart, this 78 Hp engine still delivers a refined driving experience suitable for the DS Cabriolet. Performance is relaxed, prioritizing comfort over speed.
Fuel Economy
Similar to the higher-output version, fuel economy is acceptable for a classic car of this period. Regular maintenance is key to optimizing its efficiency.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic and timeless design
- • Unparalleled ride comfort due to hydropneumatic suspension
- • High collector's value and prestige
- • Advanced engineering for its era
- • Luxurious and unique open-top experience
Cons:
- • Complex hydropneumatic system requires specialized maintenance
- • Parts can be scarce and expensive
- • Performance is modest by modern standards
- • Lack of modern safety features
- • Fuel economy is not a strong point
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 1955 - 1961).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Citroen |
| Model: | DS |
| Generation: | I Cabriolet Chapron |
| Modification (Engine): | 19 (78 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1960 |
| End of production: | 1961 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 78 Hp @ 4500 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 40.8 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 139 Nm @ 3000 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1911 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4 l |
| Coolant: | 10 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 78 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 100 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 7.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 16.6 kg/Hp, 60.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 9.3 kg/Nm, 107.3 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1295 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 65 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4820 mm mm [20mm more] |
| Width: | 1790 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1450 mm mm [20mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3125 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1500 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1300 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
How many miles have you covered in your Citroen DS? Share your journey!