The Traction Avant was a huge success for Citroën, with over 759,000 examples built from 1934 through 1957, interrupted only during wartime in Europe. Strong demand for these sophisticated French road cars encouraged international production, with Citroën’s Parisian factory output supplemented by examples built in Belgium, Denmark, Germany, and in the UK.

British Traction Avant models were built at the Slough factory in the UK and included the 1.9-liter Light Fifteen and long-wheelbase Big Fifteen, plus the 2.9-liter 15/6-derived Big Six. British requirements dictated that models assembled at Slough had to contain 51% UK-sourced parts for exemption from import taxes. Accordingly, the Slough-built cars were equipped with a Lucas electrical system including headlights, generator, and starter. Interiors included a walnut dashboard with Jaeger instruments, Connolly-upholstered leather seats and door panels, and a wool headliner. Exteriors included UK-specific bumpers and guards plus a chrome grille, with the Citroën chevrons mounted behind. Some examples also included a sunroof. Most Slough-built cars were right-hand drive, plus a small number of British-specification, left-hand-drive cars.

This Slough-built 1954 Citroën Traction Avant 11CL is a Light Fifteen in British parlance. A right-hand-drive example with equipment and features consistent with British production, it was purchased by the Mullin Collection in 2015 from a Californian owner. A 2004 New South Wales registration document on file suggests prior ownership in Australia. Accompanying items include a spare tire inside the trunk, a prior registration document, and a copy of a Classic & Sports Car magazine article on the Traction Avant series.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.