The 1968 Citroën DS 21 Cabriolet is a highly coveted and rare version of the iconic Citroën DS. The DS Cabriolet, particularly the DS 21, is celebrated for its blend of cutting-edge technology, elegant design, and open-top driving experience.
Design: The DS 21 Cabriolet was designed by Henri Chapron, a renowned French coachbuilder who was responsible for creating the cabriolet versions of the DS.
It features the same sleek and aerodynamic body as the standard DS but with a convertible soft-top roof, which enhances its appeal as a luxury, open-air vehicle.
The car’s elongated, graceful lines, paired with its distinctive front fascia and “shark-like” nose, make it one of the most elegant cars of its era.
Performance: The 1968 DS 21 Cabriolet was powered by a 2.1-liter inline-four engine, capable of producing around 109 horsepower. It came with either a 4-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed semi-automatic transmission. Despite its relatively modest power output by today’s standards, the DS 21 Cabriolet was known for its smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to Citroën’s advanced hydropneumatic suspension system.
Hydropneumatic Suspension: The DS 21 Cabriolet featured Citroën’s signature hydropneumatic suspension, which provided an exceptionally smooth ride and self-leveling capabilities. This system allowed the car to maintain consistent ride height and comfort, regardless of road conditions or the load carried.
Interior: The interior of the DS 21 Cabriolet was luxurious, with comfortable leather seats, a minimalist dashboard, and an overall focus on driver and passenger comfort. The convertible design allowed for a more immersive driving experience, combining the comfort of the DS with the enjoyment of open-air motoring.
Rarity and Collectibility: The DS 21 Cabriolet is one of the rarest versions of the DS, as only a limited number were produced by Chapron, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The combination of the DS’s groundbreaking technology and the exclusivity of the cabriolet model makes it a prized possession among classic car enthusiasts.
Cultural Impact: The DS 21 Cabriolet, like the rest of the DS range, was seen as a symbol of French luxury and innovation. Its appearance in films, its association with celebrities, and its use by dignitaries have only added to its legendary status.
Summary: The 1968 Citroën DS 21 Cabriolet is a beautiful and technologically advanced classic car that represents the pinnacle of Citroën’s innovation and design in the 1960s. Its rarity, combined with its timeless design and luxurious features, makes it a highly desirable vehicle among collectors and automotive enthusiasts.