2025 |
Amelia Island Auctions1978 Citroen Méhari
Register to BidEstimate
$25,000 - $35,000| Without Reserve
Chassis
9CA5437
Car Highlights
Innovative and Fun 2CV-Derived Adventure Vehicle
The Result of a Fascinating Design and Development History
Features Economical Yet Sprightly Powertrain and Legendary Citroën Long-Travel Suspension
Fitted with Unique ABS Plastic Bodywork and Removable Doors and Top
Offered from a Noted Private Collection
Technical Specs
602 CC Air-Cooled Flat 2-Cylinder Engine
Single Solex Carburetor
29 BHP at 5,750 RPM
4-Speed Manual Gearbox and Front-Wheel Drive
Front Disc, Rear Drum Brakes
Fore-and-Aft Linked Suspension
Launched in 1968 and utilizing mechanicals of the popular 2CV, the Citroën Méhari was intended as a recreational vehicle, similar to BMC’s Mini-derived Mini Moke. Penned by WWII fighter pilot Count Roland de la Poype, the Méhari was named after the dromedary camel, which was often used in military scenarios. Complementing the car’s 2CV-derived mechanical underpinnings was a unique Cycolac ABS plastic body featuring removable doors and a folding soft top.
During its 20-year production run, spanning from 1968 to 1988, some 144,953 examples of the popular utility vehicle were built, 7,100 of which were purchased by the French military, as the innovative linked suspension and plastic bodywork made them extremely durable for off-road use.
One of 8,467 examples sold in 1978, this Méhari was restored by the 2CV Méhari Club Cassis, a Citroën specialist in the French Riviera, prior to 2008. The car features playful nautical-inspired equipment, including striped fabric seat upholstery and attractive wood paneling throughout the interior.
Resplendent in Beige Hoggar, a color that pays homage to the Hoggar Mountains in Southern Algeria, with complementing blue accent trim, this Méhari would make a fine addition to any French car collection or summer home.