The Citroën CX 2400 GTi, produced between 1980 and 1982, represented a high-performance variant within the second generation (CX I) of Citroën’s innovative CX line. Positioned as a premium offering, the 2400 GTi aimed to blend the CX’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic design with a more potent engine. It was a flagship model designed to appeal to drivers seeking a sophisticated and capable grand tourer. The CX, as a whole, was Citroën’s replacement for the iconic DS, continuing the company’s tradition of advanced engineering and distinctive styling. This particular variant played a crucial role in establishing the CX’s reputation for performance and luxury in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX I |
| Type (Engine) | 2400 GTi (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1980 year |
| End of production | 1982 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h / 118.68 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 201 Nm @ 3750 rpm / 148.25 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M23.622 |
| Engine displacement | 2347 cm3 / 143.22 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.5 mm / 3.68 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.5 mm / 3.37 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l / 5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt |
| Coolant | 11 l / 11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1375 kg / 3031.36 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg / 4144.69 lbs |
| Max load | 505 kg / 1113.33 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l / 11.48 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l / 17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg / 2866.01 lbs |
| Length | 4666 mm / 183.7 in |
| Width | 1734 mm / 68.27 in |
| Height | 1360 mm / 53.54 in |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm / 112.01 in |
| Front track | 1474 mm / 58.03 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1360 mm / 53.54 in |
| Front overhang | 1057 mm / 41.61 in |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm / 30.08 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm / 6.1 in |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.80 m / 38.71 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX 2400 GTi was the M23.622, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a development of Citroën’s earlier designs, featuring a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It utilized a Bosch multi-port fuel injection system, a significant upgrade over the carburetors found on earlier CX models, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produced 130 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 201 Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine’s valvetrain employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The engine was transversely mounted, a common layout for front-wheel-drive vehicles, and paired with a robust five-speed manual transmission. This transmission was chosen to handle the increased power output and provide a more engaging driving experience compared to the automatic options available on other CX trims.
Driving Characteristics
The CX 2400 GTi offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience than the lower-spec CX models. The 130 hp engine, while not overwhelming by modern standards, provided ample power for comfortable cruising and confident overtaking. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 118.68 mph were respectable for the early 1980s. However, the true hallmark of the CX driving experience remained its hydropneumatic suspension. This system provided an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with remarkable ease. The steering was light and precise, further enhancing the car’s handling characteristics. Compared to the more economical 1.6 or 2.0-liter CX variants, the 2400 GTi offered a more refined and engaging driving experience, albeit at the cost of some fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2400 GTi was well-equipped for its time, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features typically included comfortable cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and power-assisted steering. The dashboard layout was characteristically Citroën, featuring a unique combination of analog gauges and toggle switches. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior trim was generally more refined than that found in lower-spec CX models, with higher-quality materials and attention to detail. The GTi trim also included distinctive exterior styling cues, such as alloy wheels and a rear spoiler, setting it apart from other CX variants.
Chassis & Braking
The CX 2400 GTi utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a trailing arm rear suspension, both incorporating the hydropneumatic system. This setup provided exceptional ride comfort and handling stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, offering adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive control. The car’s relatively low weight (1375 kg / 3031.36 lbs) contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën CX 2400 GTi was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, sophisticated engineering, and distinctive styling. However, some critics noted that the engine, while capable, was not as powerful as some of its competitors. Compared to other grand tourers of the era, such as the BMW 5 Series or the Mercedes-Benz W123, the CX offered a unique blend of comfort and handling, but lacked the prestige of the German brands. Fuel economy was reasonable for a car of its size and performance, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although the complex hydropneumatic suspension system could require specialized maintenance.
Legacy
The Citroën CX 2400 GTi remains a sought-after classic car today, appreciated for its innovative engineering, distinctive styling, and comfortable ride. The M23.622 engine, while not known for being particularly high-strung, proved to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. However, the hydropneumatic suspension system requires regular attention and specialized knowledge to keep it functioning optimally. Finding qualified mechanics to service these systems can be a challenge. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the CX 2400 GTi command a premium price, reflecting their rarity and desirability among Citroën enthusiasts. The CX, and the 2400 GTi in particular, represents a high point in Citroën’s history, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.
