Rare Classic: 1984 Burton-Citroën

When we think of the traditional home of 2-seat Sports Cars, the Netherlands doesn’t immediately spring to mind. However, the Burton Car Company hails from that country, producing kit cars and turnkey vehicles for those who don’t want to follow the DIY path. Our featured Burton sits on the company’s Citroën 2CV underpinnings, meaning that while it isn’t the most powerful beast on the planet, it should be unerringly reliable. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting the Burton listed here on Craigslist in Leominster, Massachusetts. The seller has listed this quirky classic for $25,750.

Founded in 1993 by brothers Iwan and Dimitri Goebel, the Burton Car Company produced its first fiberglass kit car in 2000. It initially focused on domestic customers in the Netherlands, but quickly began shipping kits and completed cars across Europe. The styling is interesting, bearing traces of vehicles produced by Jaguar, Bugatti, and Delahaye. Although the company’s first car emerged at the start of the New Millennium, the model year designation confirms that this Burton’s body is attached to the underpinnings of a 1984 Citroën 2CV. Its presentation is exceptional, from its sparkling Turquoise paint to the White Hardtop with the quirky gullwing doors. The deal also includes a Black soft-top and a tonneau, both unused. The trim is excellent, and the glass is spotless.

Kit cars typically feature dash fascias finished in the vehicle’s body color or covered in faux timber. This Burton features the former, with the broad gauge selection reinforcing the sporting feel. The detachable timber wheel accentuates that impression, and with no radio or in-car entertainment, the heated seats are the main luxury touch. The appearance seems faultless, with no wear or other issues. It might not be luxurious, but it looks extremely comfortable.

I’ve talked in previous articles about bulletproof mechanical components, and those used in the Citroën 2CV fall into that category. The company’s 602cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine might produce only 29hp in factory form, but it lasts forever if properly maintained. Even if abused, they will still keep on plugging along after lesser motors have waved the white flag. This Burton features the little twin that feeds its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. However, the seller says it has the “big-bore” kit and cold air tube, pushing power to a dizzying 40hp. It still won’t be fast in a straight line, but the seller says it is a blast to drive if you keep your foot to the floor and are prepared to row the shifter a bit. Citroën quoted a top speed of 71mph for the standard 2CV, but this classic will top 75, with 85 not out of the question. It runs and drives well, and is a turnkey proposition.

The seller says they believe there are only five to nine examples of the Burton in North America, and this is only the second we’ve seen at Barn Finds. An online search of current offerings and past sales also supports that claim. It won’t appeal to everyone and, if past reader feedback is a guide, some will find the price too high. However, exclusivity sometimes comes at a cost, as with the Burton. It won’t threaten high-performance models, but if you crave a 2-seater with exotic looks and near-indestructible mechanical components, this could be the car for you.