Description

1982 Citroen Acadiane Van

Charming example subject to recent restoration including re-con engine, gearbox, new clutch, starter motor etc; huge fun potential

One of the world's most innovative manufacturers, Citroen has a long and illustrious history of producing fine and quirky vehicles across the whole motoring spectrum from commercials to luxury saloons.

The 2CV offered a useful platform for the light commercial market and by 1951 Citroen were producing a (very) light van. The body was typically brilliant, with a corrugated single skin which was immensely strong yet weighed very little – just as well as the diminutive flat-twin had its work cut out. With just 375ccs on tap, progress was leisurely to say the least, the snail pace being entirely appropriate to the 'escargot' looks.

The chassis was modified and the rear suspension beefed up, a utility version being marketed for the tradesman who could use the van during the week for work and put in rear seats for the family to use on ‘le weekend’. Thankfully the engine capacity gradually increased to 425ccs, culminating in the full power 602cc version with 32bhp on tap. By then the iconic shape had morphed into the more modern Diane, upon which model this particular van is based. In production from 1977 until 1987, over 253,000 Acadianes were sold into a lifetime of hard work.

This 1982 Right hand drive example seems to have been one of the lucky ones, spending its life in Ireland until import to the UK in 1997. It was purchased by our vendor in 2019, who went through the car improving, refurbishing or replacing what-ever needed to be.

This included, (but is not limited to) the engine, £1,100 worth of reconditioned lump by well-regarded small engine tuner and rebuild hero ‘Vixen Racer’ resulting in increased power and torque, a refurbished gearbox at a cost of £650, new clutch, fitment of electronic ignition, alternator, starter motor, coil, belts, 5-new tyres, 2 front door locks, oil cooler, battery, new shocks, rear wheel cylinders, brake shoes, brake pipes, front discs, pads and master cylinder.

The bodywork was largely sound, but did require new sills, 2 floor sections, a front heel panel and a full re-paint and fitment of new carpets inside plus radio/CD player.

The history file includes a note from the vendor on what he has done during his tenure, some photos of works carried out (to the floor), 1 old MOT, the V5C, old style logbook, old SORN notification, few sundry bills (inc. engine and gearbox detail) and current MOT valid until October 2022 with no advisories recorded at 49,615 miles

Driven from Pershore to the sale, the car ran faultlessly and was great fun to drive. An excellent promotional vehicle, or economical second car, it is bodily sound with lots of useful work carried out and is ready to be enjoyed.

For more information contact - will.daniels@brightwells.com