The Citroën CX I Break Super 2400 Automatic, produced between 1980 and 1982, represents a unique blend of Citroën’s innovative engineering and practical estate car design. Positioned as a comfortable, well-equipped variant within the CX Break (estate) range, the Super 2400 Automatic offered a more accessible entry point into the CX lineup compared to the higher-performance GTI or Prestige models. It was designed to appeal to families and drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of use, while still benefiting from the CX’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension. The CX I Break, as a whole, was part of the first series (CX I) of the CX model, built on the platform designated 1HX0/A3, and served as Citroën’s flagship estate car during its production run.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX I Break |
| Type (Engine) | Super 2400 (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1980 |
| End of production | 1982 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 2750 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M23.639 |
| 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 | 8.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| 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 | 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 110 l (3.88 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs) |
| 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.43 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 | 3 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 2400 Automatic was powered by the M23.639 engine, a 2.4-liter (2347 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a mainstay of the CX range, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a Solex C35 PHH carburetor, a common setup for European cars of the era. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm. The automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, providing smooth but not particularly rapid gear changes. This transmission was chosen to enhance the comfort and ease of driving, aligning with the Super 2400’s intended market position.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L Automatic configuration of the CX I Break prioritized comfort over outright performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the 120 hp engine and three-speed automatic transmission didn’t offer the spirited performance of the GTI or even the manual versions of the 2400. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards relaxed cruising, resulting in a noticeable delay in response when needing to accelerate quickly. However, the CX’s hydropneumatic suspension provided an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. This, combined with the automatic transmission, made the Super 2400 an excellent long-distance cruiser.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Super 2400 Automatic trim level offered a good balance of features. Standard equipment typically included cloth upholstery, power steering, and central locking. The dashboard layout was typical of Citroën’s designs of the period, featuring a prominent instrument cluster and a comfortable, ergonomic layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior trim was generally functional and well-built, though not as luxurious as the higher-end Prestige models.
Chassis & Braking
The CX I Break featured Citroën’s innovative hydropneumatic suspension system, which provided a self-leveling ride and exceptional comfort. The front suspension utilized independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed trailing arms. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CX I Break Super 2400 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical estate car. However, its performance was often criticized as being somewhat underwhelming compared to the manual versions or the more powerful GTI model. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, but not exceptional. Compared to other estate cars of the era, the CX I Break stood out for its unique suspension system and distinctive styling. The automatic transmission appealed to drivers seeking convenience, but it came at the expense of performance and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The M23 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. However, the automatic transmission, like many of its era, can be prone to wear and tear with age. Today, the Citroën CX I Break Super 2400 Automatic is a sought-after classic car, particularly among enthusiasts of Citroën’s innovative engineering. Well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly rare and valuable. The hydropneumatic suspension requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, but the unique driving experience it provides continues to attract a dedicated following. The CX I Break remains a testament to Citroën’s commitment to comfort, innovation, and distinctive design.
