The Citroën DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19, produced between 1962 and 1964, represents a unique and luxurious iteration of the groundbreaking Citroën DS. This variant, distinguished by its 1.9-liter engine producing 83 horsepower, was bodied by the renowned French coachbuilder Chapron, transforming the already innovative DS into an open-top grand tourer. Positioned as the most exclusive version of the DS, the Cabriolet Chapron catered to a clientele seeking both advanced technology and sophisticated style. It was built on the DS platform, known internally as the ID, and represented the pinnacle of Citroën’s engineering prowess combined with bespoke craftsmanship.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | DS |
| Generation | DS I Cabriolet Chapron |
| Type (Engine) | 19 (83 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1962 |
| End of production | 1964 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.4 kg/Hp, 64.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm, 110.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 3000 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1911 cm3 (116.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3125 mm (123.03 in) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in) |
| Rear track | 1300 mm (51.18 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19 is Citroën’s 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated as the engine code, produced 83 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 142 Nm (104.73 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. It featured a relatively high compression ratio of 7.5:1 for the era and utilized a single or dual Solex carburetor, depending on the specific year and market. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributed to the DS’s balanced handling characteristics. The engine employed a two-valve per cylinder configuration and a robust cast iron block. The four-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter engine, while not overtly powerful, provided adequate performance for comfortable cruising. The DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19 wasn’t designed for outright speed, but rather for refined touring. Acceleration was respectable for the time, but the car truly excelled in its ability to absorb road imperfections thanks to its revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension. The four-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, and the gear ratios were well-suited to the engine’s torque curve. Compared to later, more powerful DS variants, the 19 offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing comfort over raw performance. The front-wheel drive configuration, while innovative, could exhibit some understeer when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As a Chapron-bodied Cabriolet, the DS I was inherently a high-trim vehicle. Standard features included luxurious leather upholstery, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a comprehensive instrument panel. The convertible top was manually operated, and the interior was meticulously finished to a very high standard. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, specialized paint colors, and bespoke interior trim options. The Chapron conversion itself added significant cost to the vehicle, making it a status symbol for discerning buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The DS I Cabriolet Chapron retained the DS’s groundbreaking hydropneumatic suspension system, which provided an unparalleled ride quality. This system automatically adjusted the ride height and damping characteristics to maintain a level and comfortable ride, regardless of road conditions. The car featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the time. Steering was via a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, making the car relatively easy to maneuver despite its size. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19 was critically acclaimed for its elegant styling, advanced technology, and luxurious appointments. However, its high price tag limited its appeal to a relatively small segment of the market. Compared to the standard DS saloon, the Cabriolet offered a more exclusive and open-air driving experience, but at a significant premium. Compared to other luxury convertibles of the era, such as those from Mercedes-Benz or Jaguar, the DS Cabriolet offered a unique blend of French flair and technological innovation. Fuel economy was typical for a car of its size and era, and reliability was generally good, although the complex hydropneumatic suspension system required specialized maintenance.
Legacy
The Citroën DS I Cabriolet Chapron 19 remains a highly sought-after classic car today. Its rarity, elegant design, and innovative technology have made it a favorite among collectors. The 1.9-liter engine, while not the most powerful in the DS lineup, is known for its durability and relative simplicity. Well-maintained examples command high prices in the collector car market. The DS I Cabriolet Chapron represents a high point in French automotive design and engineering, and its legacy continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts around the world. Finding parts can be challenging, requiring specialist suppliers, but the enduring appeal of the DS ensures continued support for restoration and maintenance efforts.
