The Citroën CX I Break Super 2000 was a variant of the groundbreaking CX series, produced between 1975 and 1979. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CX Break (estate/station wagon) lineup, it combined the innovative hydropneumatic suspension system for which Citroën was renowned with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 102 horsepower. This model aimed to provide a balance of comfort, practicality, and reasonable performance for family buyers, particularly in European markets where large estates were popular. The CX I Break Super 2000 represented a significant evolution in automotive engineering, offering a unique driving experience that set it apart from its contemporaries.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX I Break |
| Type (Engine) | Super 2000 (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1975 |
| End of production | 1979 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm, 108.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 3000 rpm (112.11 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M20.616 |
| Engine displacement | 1985 cm3 (121.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2030 l (71.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4952 mm (194.96 in.) |
| Width | 1734 mm (68.27 in.) |
| Height | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3095 mm (121.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1050 mm (41.34 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 807 mm (31.77 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.43 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.70 m (41.67 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 Citroën CX I Break Super 2000 was powered by the M20.616 engine, a 1985cc inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a relatively simple design, utilizing a single overhead camshaft and two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a Solex C32 PHH carburetor, a common setup for European cars of the era. The engine’s 9:1 compression ratio and modest valve timing contributed to its smooth, albeit not particularly powerful, character. The four-speed automatic transmission was a three-speed unit with an overdrive, designed to provide comfortable cruising at highway speeds. This transmission was not known for its sportiness, prioritizing smooth shifts over rapid acceleration. The engine was transversely mounted, a layout that maximized interior space and contributed to the CX’s front-wheel-drive configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 102 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque produced by the Super 2000 powertrain resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 14 seconds and a top speed of 106 mph. While not a performance car, the CX I Break Super 2000 offered a unique driving experience thanks to its hydropneumatic suspension. This system provided an exceptionally smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with remarkable ease. The automatic transmission, while not particularly quick-shifting, contributed to the car’s relaxed and comfortable demeanor. Compared to the more powerful CX variants, such as those equipped with the 2.4-liter engine, the Super 2000 felt noticeably slower, particularly during acceleration and overtaking maneuvers. However, it offered improved fuel economy and a more forgiving driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX I Break Super 2000 came reasonably well-equipped for its time. Standard features included comfortable cloth upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and power-assisted steering. The estate body style provided a generous amount of cargo space, making it ideal for families. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior design was typically Citroën – innovative and functional, with a focus on ergonomics. The Super 2000 trim level sat in the middle of the CX Break range, offering a step up in comfort and features compared to the base models, but lacking the luxury appointments of the top-of-the-line variants.
Chassis & Braking
The CX I Break featured Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension system, which utilized self-leveling spheres filled with nitrogen and hydraulic fluid. This system provided a remarkably smooth and controlled ride, regardless of load. The front suspension utilized independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed trailing arms. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with power assistance, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën CX I Break Super 2000 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and innovative technology. However, some reviewers noted its relatively modest performance and the complexity of the hydropneumatic suspension system, which could be expensive to maintain. Compared to other estates of the era, such as the Volvo 245 or the Ford Taunus, the CX offered a more sophisticated and refined driving experience, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, but not exceptional. Reliability was a mixed bag, with the hydropneumatic suspension system being the most common source of problems.
Legacy
The Citroën CX I Break Super 2000, while not the most powerful or fastest variant of the CX, remains a significant vehicle in automotive history. Its innovative hydropneumatic suspension system and comfortable ride set it apart from its contemporaries. Today, the CX is a sought-after classic car, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique engineering and distinctive styling. The M20.616 engine, while not known for its durability, is relatively straightforward to maintain, and parts are still available. The automatic transmission, however, can be prone to issues. The CX I Break Super 2000 represents a high point in Citroën’s engineering prowess and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and comfort.
