It’s impossible to mistake a Citroen for any other car and as the seller of this ’87 CX states, “If you’re here [viewing this ad], you probably know what this car is…” Posted for sale here on Craigslist in Cherry Valley, New York this “executive” is offered at $4,500 and is reported to have been purchased from a German diplomat in 2003. The seller explains the car was used by the diplomat to travel back-and-forth from Florida to Texas before he bought it, used it, sold it to his brother, then bought it again. Phew! But that still doesn’t explain how it ended up in Upstate New York?
The seller explains the car “has been off the road for a couple of years now” and admits the car displays “multiple dings and blemishes” which is certainly not an understatement when looking at the photos. Years of being subjected to the hot Florida and Texas sun as well as being kept outside in Upstate New York have certainly taken a toll on the car’s exterior. Peeling paint is evident on the hood, the front bumper is significantly faded and although the molding and trim appear intact, they are weathered and in need of reconditioning. A series of dents can be seen along the leading edge of the hood resulting in it being warped and out of alignment with the fender on the passenger side. Rust spots and bubbles beneath the paint are also visible on various locations.
The seller mentions there is little rust although photos of the undercarriage aren’t provided. It sure would be nice to get a visual of the car’s underside as proof, especially since the car now resides in the Northeast U.S. salt belt! Check out the huge single windshield wiper! I’ve always loved the unique design of these cars and the CX line, first introduced in 1974, is widely considered the last true Citroen model before Peugeot assumed control in 1976. In addition to the car’s distinctive aerodynamic lines, the hallmark of a Citroen is its hydropneumatic suspension that is self-leveling and features a driver-variable ride height. I’m still hoping for the opportunity to drive one of these cars someday and experience for myself the way they handle as well as the amazingly smooth ride provided by the “air” suspension. The seller claims the hydropneumatic system “works perfectly” on this CX but mentions there is a small leak near the front passenger side wheel.
Photos of the car’s interior reveal the poor condition of the seats, particularly the front seats whose leather is severely cracked, faded and dirty. No pictures are shown of the front cabin though. Again it would have been nice to see the space-age dashboard and “stalk-less” steering column that are unique features of these cars. The seller reports 139,000 miles are on the 2.5-liter turbo and that he religiously starts it to let it idle “at least once a week.” At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I will again mention that no photos are provided (of the engine) in this posting.
This Citroen certainly needs a lot of attention. But considering the rarity of these cars in the U.S. is this a good deal for someone with the means to address its (many) flaws?
I think owning a DS would likely be less troublesome and more rewarding. The DS still retains minuscule support in the US, while the CX’s footprint is infinitesimal.
My falling in love at first sight with this thing may explain why I keep getting divorced. Even knowing that buying this would be a comically bad idea doesn’t make me want it less.
Youre a sick puppy Rodney! Reminds me of my friend Rich, always chasing the fat girls.
heavy girls need love too…
Admitting it is the first step my friend…
Easy to find one in great shape in Europe: France, Spain, Portugal shipped to USA and will be faster, easier and cheaper than restore that POS
Mes Amies,
Strange…I have (And had) DS’s, SM’s, 2CV, CX’s…now have DS and SM’s….Why oh why would a GERMAN dipolmat have a FRENCH Citroen…that is bizarre…probably has been fired..Car is worth maybe $2000.00
Hello Jim!
-Mike O
Like Citreons, always liked the quirkness of these cars. Despite the problem of finding parts for them. Citreons are no pos. But then all I have to do is look at Toyota, Scion and Lexus to see real POS.
That turbo engine was a great one! Powerfull and performing.
My dad had the diesel intercooler version (CX 25 TRD Turbo 2), 120 hp and almost 200 kph!
Great handeling, great brakes.
Poor plastiques inside. Too bad.
Turbo 2? Phwoar…
*goes off for a lie down.
so a German diplomat bought a French car?
French aristocracy loved these.
QUESTION, For you more knowledgeable than I.
I think back to a time where I seem to of
read that some Citreons came with a Maseratti V8, DID THEY?
Thanks!
The SM had a Maseratti V6. Citroen owned Maseratti at that time.
There was at least one V8 SM made. It still exists with it’s 4 litre Maserati V8.
No. No option for a V8.
There was an SM built sporting a V8 crafted from two grafted C114 V6 engine blocks. The red car in the photo is that vehicle.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, guys with money built “follies”, typically grand houses, in very unusual and expensive, styles. This, my friends, is a folly in the first degree, all it needs is money and love, and it will be a great, if expensive to maintain, car. And the owner, who undoubtedly will have $, will need a Toyota/Lexus to get where he/she needs to go when getting there is essential. Like the airport. I am guessing whoever buys this with eyes open will have no need to work.
Oleopneumatic… There’s oil in the suspension, not water 😉
I think it’s air….C the green balls under the hood in the pic. Don’t those hold the air pressure?
I heard onea des can go dwn the st on 3 wheels…
Air AND special oil (LHM). Google search it.
Have you ridden in one of these? The long wheelbase and suspension combine to deliver a ride that defies description.
There are a few that come close but this is a car that you can drive for 1500+ miles and upon arriving at your destination get out, have a stretch and be ready to go for more.
Hello! I am the owner / seller of this car. It was originally owned by Eric Langman (owner of CXA) who sold it to the German Diplomat. I only really took pictures of all the flaws of the car, I will try to get some posted of the underside. I few people have come and test drove the car, but no buyers yet. I have added some pics of the dash..