25th Jun, 2025 12:00

The Millbrook Sale | Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire

 
Lot 90
 

1954 Citroën Traction Avant 15 'Big Six'

Estimated at £10,000 - £12,000

Lot details

Registration No: LVB 951
Chassis No: 9/537590
MOT: Exempt

  • British market Slough built 'Big Six' with original RF60 log book and current V5C
  • Desirable big boot specification with sunshine roof, RHD, wooden dash and red Connolly hide.
  • Displaying correct chassis and engine numbers
  • Rare 6 cylinder version of the Traction Avant
  • Understood to have been subject to restoration during the 1990s and now in need of some updating
Citroen's most famous and unique pre-war model, the Traction Avant (front wheel drive) was launched in 1934. Known as the 7CV or simply 'Seven', this revolutionary vehicle was noteworthy not only for its front wheel drive, but for having its wheels positioned far out at each corner, as well as for having the gearbox ahead of the four cylinder engine. A subframe bolted to the monocoque steel bodyshell held the torsion bar front suspension, engine and gearbox. This unitary construction technique provided the basis for the advanced looking, low slung, rakish body design which before long became a favorite of European gangsters - both in real life and in movies. This design formed the backbone of Citroen's range (with larger engined variants) until 1955 and was not withdrawn until July 1957. Amazingly this was achieved with little change from its original form in either mechanical construction or appearance.
Citroens’ factory in Slough, England was wholly owned by the French company. It was formed to avoid British import duties and ensured enough British sourced materials and parts were used to achieve this. The key difference was the adoption of 12v Lucas electronics throughout including lights and components, Smiths instruments and chrome fittings and grill. It was also deemed more suitable for the English market to incorporate a wooden dashboard and leather upholstery as opposed to metal dash and cloth or velvet seats. It is noteworthy that many engine and body parts were entirely interchangeable with the French and Belgian built models. The ‘Big 6’ as it was known also as the 15/6 was a big step up in power and specification from the mid range 11B ‘Normale’. Slightly longer in bonnet but same bodywork aft. The six cylinder 2866cc engine gave a silky powerful performance and was said to be able to cruise at 75 MPH. At a purchase price in 1954 of £940.00 with £392 purchase tax this was a very expensive and exotic car to own in mid-fifties Britain.

This desirable British market Slough built Big Six was first registered in January 1954 to a Mr Fairfield Osborn of Palace Gardens Terrace, London. In 1972 it passed to a Douglas Cooksey of Highgate, London. The subsequent history is unknown until purchased by the vendor from a Birmingham businessman who had it restored in the 1990s (photographs on file). It was then dry-stored for many years.

Starting readily, it was driven to the catalogue photography shoot. The interior with wooden dash and red Connolly hide appears well preserved including the headlining. The sunroof is stiff from lack of use. The engine ran with no noticeable oil smoke. It is assumed that since restoration few miles have been completed so the usual checks will be necessary. The floor and ‘big boot’ floor all seem sound however there are jobs to do in places, including the exterior under sill on one side and rear window seal. All windows open and close properly and the door locks on the key. The car would benefit from attention to the paintwork and we are informed the rear bumper will be included in the sale. A rare example displaying correct chassis and engine numbers.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Diamond
Paul.diamond@handh.co.uk
07768 313001

 

Auction: The Millbrook Sale | Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, 25th Jun, 2025

 

An auction of classic, collector and performance motorcars to be held at the iconic and visually stunning Millbrook Proving Ground, Milton Keynes.

To enquire about entering your classic or performance car into the auction please call our sales office on 01925 210035, email sales@HandH.co.uk or click here: Enter Your Classic Motorcar 

All our professional valuations are complimentary and without obligation.

To join the auction in person or via the telephone, please click here for more information How to BidTo take part in online bidding please click 'Register to Bid | Sign In' at the top of the page or bid through our auction partners Saleroom.com Saleroom

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Tues 24th June from 12pm
Wed 25th June from 9am

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