The 1958 Citroen DS19, also known as the Citroen DS or Goddess, was a revolutionary car that was ahead of its time in terms of design and technology. It was unveiled at the Paris Auto Show in 1955 and was produced until 1975, with over 1.4 million units sold worldwide.
The DS19 was designed by Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni and French aeronautical engineer André Lefèbvre, who drew inspiration from aviation and space travel. Its sleek and futuristic design featured a long, aerodynamic body, a sloping roofline, and asymmetric headlights.
Under the hood, the DS19 had a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder engine that produced 75 horsepower and was paired with a sophisticate hydraulic suspension system, which allowed the car to maintain a constant ride height and absorb bumps and vibrations in the road. The suspension system also replaced traditional springs and shock absorbers, making the DS19 one of the most comfortable and smoothest riding cars of its time.
Inside, the DS19 had a spacious and luxurious cabin that was designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with most of the controls located on a single stalk that was located behind the steering wheel.
The DS19 was not only a technological marvel but also a cultural icon. It was driven by celebrities, politicians, and even appeared in movies such as the James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only”. Today, it is considered one of the most significant and influential cars of the 20th century.
