Hey, what’s this? A DS? No, not correct. An ID, then. The confusion is entirely understandable because, in fact, an ID is just a DS but with a bit less luxury on board. Nowadays, the ID is highly cherished for its simplicity, especially when it’s in a condition like you see here. This ID 19 has been restored to an absolute concours condition. Before we tell you more about it, let’s take a trip to the history books.
A divine design, the Citroën DS. We didn’t choose that description by chance; the French pronounce DS as “Déesse,” which means ‘Goddess.’ The DS was presented on October 6, 1955, at the Paris Motor Show, where 15 minutes after opening, 743 orders were booked, and by the end of the day, there were a staggering 12,000 buyers on the waiting list. It was a flying start for the French car that went down in history as one of the most comfortable cars ever made. The hydropneumatic suspension, together with its unmistakable design, earned it a unique place in the classic car world, both as the DS and the ID.
This ID 19 is the perfect example of a beautifully restored classic car. Our ID went through a top-class restoration process carried out by skilled and professional companies, sparing no expenses. The result is astonishing; we have rarely seen such a beautiful ID/DS.
The body is in a fantastic condition, with perfectly straight bodywork, beautiful paint, and precise fittings of the moving parts. While an ID is not known for having razor-thin panel gaps, this particular one has been perfected to the best possible standard. The mouse grey colour looks exceptionally stylish on this car, especially in combination with the white roof.
The colour combination gets even better when you open the door. The first thing you notice is the warm red upholstery, which is in a state that perfectly matches what we’ve seen on the outside. In fact, the interior of the ID looks new, with even the carpets being completely new and flawless. Nothing was rushed; the entire restoration process can only be described as having been meticulous. The ID features the characteristic flat dashboard with a horizontal speedometer. This meter, along with all the other gauges and controls, functions perfectly as intended. The thin one-spoke steering wheel is, of course, typical of the ID/DS.
When you take a seat behind the wheel, you’ll sink into the exceptionally comfortable seats. Even with your eyes closed, you’ll immediately feel that you’re sitting in a classic French car with unmatched comfort.
And then comes the driving experience, a unique adventure in itself with an ID. Of course, the mechanics have been thoroughly addressed, not only the engine but also the hydropneumatic suspension, brakes, gearbox, and everything else that contributes to the mechanical workings of the car. The result is a Citroën that drives the way a Citroën from that era should: extremely comfortable and unmistakable compared any other classic car. The four-cylinder engine does its job without complaint and performs in a way that allows you to smoothly keep up with modern traffic.
This ID is perhaps the most fantastic combination possible: an excellent restoration, completed in one of the most inviting colour schemes, and incredibly enjoyable to drive. Be warned: once you’re in Brummen, you’ll be sold! The car comes with the necessary documentation and invoices.
