The first time I saw one of these little Citroen “Tin Snails” (as they’re called in their native France) was in the movie “American Graffiti.” Richard Dreyfuss’s character, Curt Henderson, had a blue one parked at Mel’s Drive-in. I remember wondering what in the world was that? It was quirky, ugly, and looked like a sheet metal insect on wheels. Oddly enough, 40 years after the movie’s 1973 release, the movie’s 1967 Citroen 2CV was purchased by the same man whose white ’56 Thunderbird was driven by the mysterious blond, Suzanne Somers, who’s only line, “I love you” was mouthed to Dreyfuss’s Curt Henderson character. Well, enough movie trivia, here’s an opportunity to own a Citroen AK 400 “Van/Truckette” version that appears to be in good shape. It’s located in Barrington, Illinois and listed on Barn Finds Classifieds for $18,500.

The seller doesn’t give any history of the Citroen other than it appears to have been in storage for 10 years and has been worked on in order to make it roadworthy. Based on the photos, the little white “Van/Truckette” (which had a 30-year production run from 1951 through 1981 with over 1.2 million made), appears to be solid and presentable with no rust spotted. The rear storage area also looks solid and clean for a hauler, complete with side curtains for the windows.

In the seller’s own words, “Primary work done has been the removal, cleaning, and sealing of the gas tank, completely new fuel system including fuel pump and carburetor. The master brake cylinder and all-wheel cylinders have been replaced, along with new shoes and in the rear, all new brake lines. A new battery, a new alternator, and a big upgrade, a 123 electronic ignition.”  The van is also sporting new Michelin 125 tires. Inside the simple, basic interior, the seller has added new seat covers and replaced the original steering wheel (which I think looks out of place in the Citroen’s utilitarian interior).

Under the curved, ribbed hood sits a 602cc engine that’s mated to a 4-speed manual transmission.The engine bay looks clean and tidy and the seller states the little van can top out around 60 mph and “cruise” at a steady 55 mph. The odometer reads 78,000, but nothing is mentioned if that’s original or if the engine has ever been rebuilt. This is certainly a chance to own an unusual and unconventional vehicle that looks neat and tidy and appears to need nothing. I don’t think Matt Foley could fit in this thing and live in it down by the river. I also don’t think the next owner will see another one of these at their local Coffee and Cruise-In, but maybe, just maybe, at a local Crème Brûlée and Cruise-In.