Citroën DS 1962–1966 car dimensions: 4838 mm long, 1790 mm wide and 1470 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,230 kg. Boot space with the seats up is 500 litres.
The cabin offers a flat floor and long wheelbase for generous rear legroom and headroom. Soft, deeply padded seats cradle passengers. A single-spoke steering wheel frames a simple instrument cluster. Heater and demister with air distribution controls are fitted. Hydraulic power steering and brakes are standard on DS models.
The boot holds 500 litres with a deep, usable shape. Spare wheel sits under the bonnet and fuel tank under the rear seat, leaving the space clear. Self-levelling suspension keeps the car level when loaded.
Payload reaches 490 kg. The hydropneumatic suspension self-levels under load and allows height adjustment for rough ground or easy loading. Towing is possible but not highlighted in period material for the sedan.
Soft deeply padded upright seats cradle occupants with good support and recline fully at the front. Rear bench offers class-leading legroom and headroom on a flat floor with thick foam mats. Hydropneumatic suspension delivers a smooth self-levelling ride that absorbs poor surfaces. Cabin stays quiet with low wind noise, effective heating and multi-vent ventilation. High roof and wide space give an open airy feel.
Petrol engine runs on regular fuel with 25-33 mpg typical
Front inboard disc brakes with power assist standard
Hydropneumatic suspension self-levels and aids stability
Oil changes around every 3000 km or 1900-3100 miles
Single-spoke steering wheel and padded interiors for safety
The 1911 cc petrol four uses regular fuel and returns 25-33 mpg in mixed use with a 65 litre tank giving long range. Later 1965-66 cars gain larger engines but keep similar economy traits.
Servicing centres on regular engine oil and filter changes plus hydraulic fluid checks. Early cars use LHS fluid that needs frequent renewal to avoid corrosion. spheres and seals last with use. Greasing points and tappets form part of routine care.
Safety kit includes power-assisted inboard front discs and rear drums with dual circuits, self-levelling suspension that keeps the car stable even on three wheels, and a single-spoke wheel that reduces injury risk. The design proved effective in real incidents with strong roadholding.
Keep the car by driving it regularly so hydraulics stay healthy. Monitor fluid type and condition, check for leaks and sphere pressure. Body panels unbolt easily for repairs and the aluminium parts resist rust if looked after.
Length 4838 mm, Width 1790 mm, Height 1470 mm, Wheelbase 3125 mm (DS 1962–1966)
Sources: manufacturer data, auto-data.net DS II 19 and related, longstonetyres.co.uk and citroenet.org.uk.