Citroen Traction Avant
A true pioneer, the Citroën Traction Avant brought front-wheel drive and monocoque construction to the mass market decades before they were common. Today, it's a historically significant collector's car valued for its advanced engineering and distinct Art Deco styling.
Find one with Spotter →Citroen Traction Avant sold for a median of $11,633 over the last 12 months, based on 21 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $11,000 and $14,542. 8 currently for sale.
The Citroën Traction Avant was a truly advanced car when it launched in 1934. It brought front-wheel drive and monocoque construction to the mass market, two features that wouldn't become common for decades. Combined with its four-wheel independent suspension, it offered handling and road-holding that were far ahead of its contemporaries. Production ran for 23 years, finally ending in 1957.
Collectors are drawn to the Traction Avant for its historical significance and unique Art Deco-inspired design. It's a symbol of French innovation and has a rich history, famously used by the French Resistance, the Gestapo, and ordinary citizens during WWII. Models range from the common 4-cylinder 11CV to the much rarer 6-cylinder 15CV, with values varying accordingly.
Today's market for post-war Traction Avants is quite approachable, with an average sales price of just over $17,000. The wide price spread reflects the vast difference between a running project and a fully restored or rare convertible model. Most examples trading hands are the later, more common cars built after the war.
Buying Tips
- The monocoque body is prone to rust; inspect the sills, floor pans, and suspension mounting points for corrosion.
- Check the engine for signs of oil leaks, particularly from the 'octopus' filter housing, and listen for timing chain noise on start-up.
- A sagging ride height indicates worn torsion bars, which are a significant and costly repair.
- Parts availability is good through specialists, but verify that all unique trim and body-specific items are present, as they can be hard to source.
Prices range from $6,900 for lesser examples to $48,000 for pristine or rare models.
133 Citroen Traction Avant vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 8 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Citroen Traction Avant cost?
Over the last 12 months, Citroen Traction Avant sold for a median of $11,633 across 21 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $11,000 and $14,542. There are 8 currently for sale.
How many Citroen Traction Avant listings are for sale right now?
There are 8 Citroen Traction Avant listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.