Citroën 2CV Ripple Bonnet- 1954

The Citroën 2CV was designed to offer minimal-cost rural transportation. Designers were challenged to build a car that would carry two people and a 250 pound sack of potatoes at a speed of 37 mph. When the 2CV was unveiled at the Paris Salon in 1948, the press found it laughable. Production got under way in 1950, and owners were overwhelmed at the car’s qualities–the ride comfort, the spaciousness, and the economy. Originally, 2CVs were only available in grey; color choice was not an option until 1960. The tubular-framed seats are detachable, and the fully-opening canvas roof extends right down to the rear bumper. Despite the similarities between early and late examples, early models are recognized for the “ripple” bonnet with its slatted front grille, the lack of rear quarter windows, and the fact that the front doors open backwards.