More than 6000 2CVs are expected to smash all previous records at a global gathering from 26-31 July at the 19th International ‘Amis de la 2CV’.
Held every two years, the meeting attracts participants from all over the world who come together to celebrate one of Citroën’s longest-running success stories. The 2011 event, involving many of Europe’s 2CV owner’s clubs, takes place at a 60-hectare site near Salbris in Central France.
Four (yes four, read on for an explanation) pre-war prototype 2CVs will be on show. Developed in the 1930s, most of the 250 prototype 2CVs were destroyed before war – with the exception of three, which were hidden to stop them falling into enemy hands. The fourth was stashed away by Michelin.
Post-war, the 2CV was finally unveiled at the 1948 Paris Motor Show, before selling 5,114,940 units sold between 1948 and 1990.
According to organisers: "A wealth of activities will be taking place on and off site at the meeting, including; a 2CV ‘disassemble-reassemble’ competition; a bring-and-buy sale; various children’s events; and the use of driving simulators. Road routes will be provided for those wishing to explore the local region and a small number of 2CVs will be on hand for those wishing to discover, or rediscover, the feeling of driving this automotive legend."
James Elliott is a former Editor of Classic & Sports Car