Citroën DS 19 M Decapotable Marque specialist TOP restored! Full history, 32 years same owner!

A very special car, the convertible version of the ID and DS. Five years after the introduction of the closed DS, just when everyone had recovered from the shock of this iconic car, Citroën presented the open version. Henri Chapron received the commission from Citroën to create a convertible from one of the most advanced cars of its time and the Italian Flaminio Bertoni was responsible for the design. Needless to say Flaminio succeeded brilliantly.

Just over 1,300 convertibles were built, of which around 120 in 1965. One of them was this incredibly well restored and fully authentic DS 19 M Decapotable. A car that belongs to the most exceptional DS cars we have ever driven and is also exceptionally well-preserved. Add to that the very attractive color combination, and we can quite rightfully speak of a rather unique car.

The car was previously restored to concours condition, and the accompanying (numerous) photos show that this was not a matter of ‘just a repaint’ but a thorough restoration from bare metal where no inch was overlooked, whether visible or invisible. The result is a DS that looks truly phenomenal. We can enumerate the parts such as bodywork, chrome and stainless steel parts, and rubbers separately, but it is easier to summarize it as all being ‘in top condition’.

The interior also lives up to that description, but why not discuss it separately. Beautiful leather that looks ‘almost new’ and carpets in excellent condition immediately give a good impression when you open a door. Once sitting on the exceptionally comfortable seat, you have a view of a beautiful dashboard. Partially color-coded, as early DS models should be, with beautiful, horizontally oriented, instruments. The steering wheel with only one spoke is typically DS and is just as eye-catching as everything else you see around you. Exceptional in terms of condition, perfect in terms of functionality.

The mechanical side was also completely restored to optimal condition; there is truly nothing that could hinder a pleasant or reliable ride. Chassis, brakes, steering, engine, and gearbox: driving this DS is an absolutely fantastic experience. The well-known and unparalleled flexibility of the hydraulically sprung chassis, the smooth engine, and the manual gearbox: what a pleasure!

With this formidable DS 19 M convertible, a whole load of restoration photos, many appraisal reports since the ’90s, invoices, the original purchase receipt from the first owner at Henry Chapron Carrosserie, and various documents proving the authenticity of this car are included. Truly a unique DS!