Citroen CX Prestige: Travelling First Class

Presented in September 1974, the #Citroen CX is the last vehicle the French marque designed as an independent automaker. A replacement for the iconic DS, the CX was about evolution rather than revolution, building on the DS's strengths while taking advantage of 1970s technology to overcome its flaws.
However, the CX's more compact dimensions compared to its predecessor made it a less than ideal chauffeur-driven car. The introduction of the CX Prestige in 1976 was Citroen's answer to those criticisms. It was the top of the line model, built on the 25 cm longer wheelbase it shared with the CX's wagon variant presented the same year. All this increased legroom, together with the sumptuous seating and, from 1977, a raised roofline, makes the CX Prestige a real pleasure to be driven in; I can definitely vouch for that!
#Classic #citroenorigins
The beautiful CX Prestige featured in this video is for sale. Check it out here if you’re interested in buying this absolute stunner:
www.autoscout24.it/annunci/ci...
The exclusive merchandise you can buy to support my channel: teespring.com/stores/roadster...
My automotive books:
Six Appeal - The Story Of The Alfa 6
www.amazon.com/dp/1793931046
Alfa Romeo Giulietta - The Story 1977 - 1985 www.amazon.com/dp/1983393746
Alfa Romeo Arna - The Full Story 1980 - 1987 www.amazon.com/dp/1656632500

[@steva7159]

My art professor had Citroen CX,he picked me up once on the way to school.All i remember of that car is how nice the seats were and steering wheel.That was around 15 years ago.

[@Rammstein56]

The Diesels were King of the road, fast and impressive. Especially the marron red 'Tissier 6-wheel 'versions that delivered American and other newspapers all over Northern Europe at night. These were from a French company called 'HOLLANDER'( Dutchman in my Dutch language) and these would fly passed you. Once at 02.00 or 03.00 early in the morning I was driving my boss' Volvo 240 Diesel Estate, a howling six cylinder Diesel when one of those 6-wheel Holander CX'es flew past me. I tried to hook on to that CX 2500 Turbo Diesel but only when another truck or car would pull out to the left lane I could finally hook up with the CX, once the road was open again there was no way the Volvo could keep up with the CX ! Later I talked to a driver from a Dutch newspaper who had a yellow CX 2500 Break (estate) as transport car and asked him 'Why a Citroen ?' He replied, we had Mercedes we had a V8 Chevy Van, but nothing is so good and so capable to drive high speeds like the CX.

[@peterkleinveld9705]

There were also customed CX Prestiges from Chapron coach work with seperation window and tv set up in the passenger compartiment for the CEO's

[@Matteo_Licata]

Yes, those were legendary. Nothing that could load as much as a CX Break could handle nearly as well. Hard use and intergalactic mileages prevented most examples to make it to this day though!

[@GreasyFingers]

It’s amazing how these car stories stay in our heads over decades. Same here! 👍🏼

[@Rammstein56]

@@GreasyFingers How's the Giulia doing ?

[@GreasyFingers]

@@Rammstein56 😀 Waiting for the Carrera to get off the hoist.

[@dortkommendieclowns1474]

A Prestige is absolutely amazing, as passenger there is no better way to travel!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Indeed. I'd love to buy this car and being able to pay a chaffeur to drive me around!

[@pertveiten3851]

I had one for five years. Never had a car with so great personality and the pleasure of driving. Sold it about 20 years ago. Still miss it.

[@matteoperusi]

Avevo il 20 TRE. Per 13 anni 91.04. Per me la navicella spaziale ❤ ciao.

[@cordesjosch4696]

What a beautiful car! Was für ein schönes Auto!

[@Falcone-en4wl]

I still remeber the first time, as a child, I was in a CX in the early eighties: I was surpriced by the steering wheel capacity to return to the center point and the amazing rolling speedometer. A such unique car inside and outside.

[@Matteo_Licata]

That was the self-centering power steering called "DiRaVi" at work. It debuted on the SM and was used on all CXs (except some rare early models with unassisted steering). I haven't featured it in this video... Because I forgot to ask the owner of this CX to do a few turns to demonstrate it :( I will duly show it once I'll film an SM later this year ;)

[@kjeldlarsen912]

Back when cars were individual and special love it , thx

[@Matteo_Licata]

Very true! Thank you!

[@donjorge8329]

The CX was such a wonderful car!

[@Matteo_Licata]

We agree :)

[@dm5374]

My first car was a DSuper5. Since then I've owned Fiats, Lancias, BMWs and current own Ferrari and Mercedes. And yet, if I could find a really nice CX, I would buy it immediately. It's always been my dream.

[@Ricketik65]

The CX is still one of my dream cars.

[@michelinstarschallenger8626]

Stylish dream !

[@Muushondje]

What a superb tribute to Paul Mages. He would be proud to be remembered in this way. Keep up the good work.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you and glad you’ve appreciated it!

[@lucde_ville4743]

The CX has a special place in my heart. When I was in one, for the first time, something miraculous happened. When the engine was started, it was not the car that moved. The car stayd as it was, while the world bowed and adjusted itself to the car. Plus that dashboard, the speed rolling by was such a simple and clever little thing. To this day, the second best carmemory I have.

[@Matteo_Licata]

I can fully relate: loved feeling my dad's BX rising itself up to driving height, when I was little. :)

[@otomobilmece]

We had one CX Pallas 2000 1976 when I was young .it was quiet and confortable engine I remember it. This car is the Mercedes of the France....😃🙂👍

[@JulioCesar-cc7uc]

Me piacerebbe andare in questi vintage Citroen. Un saluto brasiliano from Bristol UK. Abbraccio!!!

[@NIKOSFOUST]

Matteo I fully agreed , Citroen’s and Alfa’s could be the ideal to fill the roads...

[@sebastianlema3331]

the citroen era where engineering surpasses all fashion!!!

[@stephenberry1205]

Great history of the CX Prestige. Fantastic modern replacement for the classic DS. In Australia I sold my 1972 DS 21 EFI 5 speed Pallas with leather to pick up tourist delivery 1978 CX Prestige 2400 EFI 5 speed with leather (& standard vinyl roof) in UK spec RHD for Paris delivery. A year working in the UK followed by 5 months touring Europe before shipping home to Australia. Loved the Prestige whose wheelbase was the same as the DS (and RR Silver Shadow LWB). How does the DS Pallas compare to the CX Prestige? Loved the upright lounge chair seats and turning headlights of the DS. Prestige was an amazing modern innovation of the best of the DS and more, * Much quieter and more spacious interior including trunk. * Power self centring Diravi steering from SM with 2.5 turns lock to lock * Finger tip control pods for all controls plus rotating drum speedo and tacho * Huge single wiper and aerodynamics which threw the water off the front windscreen' * Concave rear window - self cleaning of rain & dirt by aerodynamics * Did not suffer from engine heat in cabin as in DS * Superior air conditioning but weaker fresh air ventilation * Top dust sealing. Frameless windows and small door rubbers of DS needed additional sealing on DS used on country dirt roads. * Rear footrests + headrests + rear blinds + rear door sunvisors. * Both relaxed high speed cruisers @ 160 kph @ 4,350 rpm in 5th. * Top speed - 172 kph in 4th, 195 kph in 5th. Accessories I added to the Prestige * Front centre leather armrest with storage compartment * Headlight washers & wiper (Swedish CX accessory) * Electronic horns with 24 tunes, siren & Marseillaise - sounding the French Nation Anthem when overtaking in Australia after town & country horns of CX. Magnifique... The Prestige was low and sleek while the DS was elegant and haughty in a very French way. Performance - very similar acceleration and top speed Handling - CX superior. Ride - similar - CX a little less floaty. Both extraordinary heart tugging low flying style machines. Early CXs had a major rust problem even after Ziebart rust protection.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Wow, love this comment! Thank you very much for sharing so much of your experience with the car, it's the kind of stuff I really love to read.

[@jncg2311]

Hello Stephen, Great to read your comment and a true comparison with the DS. I especially appreciate that it comes from someone who knew both cars and really understands grand touring. This video and your comment comes at a good time, I am finally realising a long held ambition and am soon to get a CX myself, not a Prestige or series 1 perhaps unfortunately, I have to put my preference for the aesthetic of the Series 1 aside for the improved rust proofing and affordability of the series 2, particularly in the UK. How's the book coming along? I am still looking forward to reading my copy. Perhaps on a sunny Sunday morning in May, with a coffee, sat outside where I can see my CX lounging seductively, ready to waft me somewhere good for lunch...

[@stephenberry1205]

@@jncg2311 Great to touch base again. It seems we have common interests.. Which country are you in? I would recommend a CX GTI Turbo if you an find one. A close friend had one and it absolutely flew... a truly sporting CX. The rust problems of the CX Series 1 were horrendous. Fixed with the Series 2, which is not as elegant as the cars with stainless steel bumpers. My Prestige ended up with celebrated wine and food personality Len Evans who was a great Citroen fan. It ended up so rusted our it became used for parts for a Citroen collector. If they never went near a salted road or the seaside a really good series I CX is much more stylish... to be true to CX quirks and drum speedo and tacho is preferred. I was lucky to have custody of 3 new cars in 1978 in the UK and Europe. The blue Citroen 2CV6 club. The brun scarabee CX Prestige and the RR Silver Shadow II.... at age 24. The Prestige was my favourite. Touring on French country roads with 'chassee deforme' was truly sublime. With DIRAVI self centering power steering you could take your hands off the wheel on a very undulating deformed road surface at 120 kph, and the car ran absolutely true... Incroyable. My book has grown to a hard cover condensed book and electronic trilogy for those who wish to indulge deeper. Still about a year to complete.

[@char1737]

They are rolling works of art

[@Matteo_Licata]

agree!

[@johnpoile1451]

Spaceship on wheels.

[@ukin237]

Always love cars from this era 👌

[@jean-pierredeclemy7032]

I loved the two mk1 Familiale CX that I had. The perfect car for driving down to Nice for a long weekend.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Cool! Petrol or Diesel?

[@Salman-sc8gr]

It held the world record for speed in Diesel cars till the 1990s. Won Rallies especially the Ivory Coast rally, 1,2,3 finish!

[@punkpokret]

I had golden CX 2.4 GTI when i was 17 years old and just before 18th birthday, it was towed away out of my life never to be seen again :-) Bought it with my friends, but they did not used it a lot. Me however, i drove it across my country :-) Not a lot of times, but did drove it. But in my home town and around it, we were always in that car :-) It had an revolving-drum speed and rev counter. We called it "WATER COUNTER". This was the best car i ever owned. The ride way just perfect! I also had a C5 2.2 Exclusive, now i have ordinary C5 2.0 diesel, but CX really was the top of the pops! :-) Interesting, when i was a kid i did not like those cars. But once i bought it, the Citroen became number one search when ever i was on a market for a car :-) And my dream car? Citroen C6, never mind the version :-) Any C6 will do if i ever get chance to buy one :-)

[@Matteo_Licata]

The C6 has already become a coveted model by Citroen enthusiasts. I've ridden on one just once, when the car was new and a friend's dad bought a 3.0 V6 petrol, brand new! Why your CX was towed away?

[@punkpokret]

@@Matteo_Licata Why it was towed away? :-) First of all, i was to young to be the owner of the car so i could not even renew car license by myself. I was 17 at the time me and my crew bought it. We were all underage of course :-) And second thing, the person on who car was written at the time and sold us the car of course refuse to renew the license so that was that. To be honest, we were not really the best and the most responsible owners. But what else to expect from kids. We were not smart but the the owner was even less smarter than us i think :-) :-) But all in all, car did burned tyres even when you went from 2nd to 3rd gear so today i of course do understand why he refused to further have any part in us owning the car :-) That really was a strong and a wild car. Engine was in great shape, much better than the body work :-) And how we came to buy the car? He sold us car for very little money. That was in 1999, we bought it for 300 german marks. That is approx. 150€ in today's money. He probably owed money to people, as always. All i know is that he needed some amount fast so we made a deal. As said, the car was written to his name all the time we used it but he of course did not have keys or anything :-) So when license expired and i came to him as an last resort to renew license, he did not even want to hear about renewing it :-) He just took the documents and car was probably sent to depot. Only shattered black glass was left behind where the car was last parked. All in all, me and my crew had the car for about 7-8 months. From early Spring to middle of the Autumn, just before my 18th birthday. But we did quite a lot of driving. Some was from Punk festival to Punk festival, all over Slovenia. But for the most of the time it was used as an daily ride to go to swim to our local river, for shopping, going to party's with girls, etc. To say it in simple words: car was in daily use while in our possession. Also, we were never stopped by the police and did not get any ticket or fine. Everything went smooth for us, same as the car :-) :-) And to finish my short story: great memories comes to mind when i remember that car. Crazy times indeed. I am just sorry that i did not buy it when i got my drivers license. Would probably took better care of the car, enjoy it more :-) But ok, i am partially reliving my dreams with Citroen C5's :-) Cheers from Slovenia!

[@Matteo_Licata]

That’s such a cool story! I can imagine that you remember that car with affection. Thank you very much for sharing it with me! 👍

[@punkpokret]

@@Matteo_Licata Well, it was my first car, i learned how to properly drive, got feeling for the roads, etc. So memories will always be there :-) And of course, keep up the good work with making and posting videos! I looked at some other on your channel and they are great! Take care and be well! Cheers from Slovenia!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you very much, I’m glad you enjoy my content. You too take care and stay safe. Cheers from Italy :)

[@donny2327]

What the Citroen CX meant to me as a boy in the ‘70s, I cannot say. Such an enigmatic temptress. Thanks for the video

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you for watching!!

[@stefaanC]

Love this car ! in my childhood my father had one For 7 years , but the car died by rust and electric problems suchs a shame it could be one of the most comfortable cars ever made ! de rear door are longer than the front doors and a huge space between the seats.

[@Matteo_Licata]

The first CXs are sadly notorious for rusting away with alacrity, I know :( Things were better with later models, but they never really were as comprehensively rust-proofed as they should have been. Love all classic Citroens, thank you very much for watching and I’m glad you enjoyed the video

[@jncg2311]

Published less than 2 months ago but I've watched it so many times I now find that I know some of the commentary by heart. Taken to heart too, this is one of the best pieces on KZbin celebrating the CX and showcasing the oft-underappreciated later CX II. Roadster Life is so underrated, you have far to go, and I mean that in the most positive way!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Wow! Thank you very much for your kind words, makes my day :) I hope you're right and this channel will keep growing as nicely as it's done so far, as I really love making these videos for you, and I plan to keep on doing them for a long time!

[@delfinoparodi820]

My dad cx 2400 GTI...fabolous !!!

[@henrydemonfreid1985]

My Dad had a CX when I was very little. We used to call it a 'Land Yacht'.

[@jasongomez5344]

Absolutely love the CX. Much prefer the Series 1 with the metal bumpers and futuristic interior.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Yeah, I do prefer the steel bumpers too. The earlier the CX, the more I like it!

[@peteradair545]

Opened 6 of these in total, 2 being the estate version, 4 being the 2.5 and last but not least the 2.52.Gti turbo the only car thats ever got me 3 points and a fine for speeding, auto cruise on and 124mph felt like you were only doing 60mph, so smooth, when the blue light came on l remember the first thing the Bobby saying, wheres the fire 😆 🤣 😂 its taken me 5 miles to catch you, he clocked me at 99mph as l seen him in my mirror way in the distance so l backed off , should have kept going he had no chance in his rover. Wish I still had that car they were way beyond their years.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Oh yes. The GTi Turbo was really something else. A friend owned one and I still remember when he maxed it out on the motorway... It felt so smooth and planted. Like you said, it didn’t feel as fast as it was!

[@joseantonioarandagarcia9966]

Very cool video and car! I remember when as a child I was fascinated by the CX, a woderfull car with -at this time- an unparalel design. Masterpice!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Well said!

[@UHF43]

Keep in mind that the CX and the FIAT 131 were both introduced in 1974, yet the design of the Citroën was light years ahead.

[@GreasyFingers]

Lots of self-made footage this time. Excellent production, enormous fun to watch! 👍🏻

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you very much! :) Going into the future, I'm going to try using as much of my own footage as I possibly can. Of course, it depends on me finding owners willing to dedicate me a couple of hours, but I'll do my best ;)

[@GreasyFingers]

@@Matteo_Licata That’s a good plan. I guess you can even make a business out of it: get in touch with guys who have the intention to sell their cars and they get a promo video in return.

[@juanmorales5133]

Mi primer automovil. Lo disfrute por un año y era todo suavidad.❤❤❤

[@minopino3]

A very nice car. And this is just like Saab a brand who like to make cars which doesn't look like cars. No normal look like a kid is drawing. I am a Alfa Romeo man. But the old citroen is coming close. I owned a 2cv. And i had the time of my car life with it👍🏼

[@rodrigotonus1975]

What a car! The interior seems superb in comfort and style... it's a shame a brand with such history are nowadays relegated to be the cheap option in PSA group.

[@peterkleinveld9705]

I've ownend a few of these quirky cars. All were Prestiges. Very luxury cars and smooth on the road. But also complex to maintain and not for everybody!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Yes, these cars need mechanics that properly understand them, and such people are very hard to find... I know first hand because my friends who collect Citroëns complain a lot about this

[@tomf3150]

Yep, a true nightmare nowadays to recharge suspension spheres.

[@johnbeggs9669]

My father in law had one, semi auto, foot stools, sun blinds etc etc. Magic Carpet Ride, 🥰

[@elefantinoverde5832]

It´s always a great pleasure to watch your videos. They are very fine and stilish made, great. Keep going on and thank you for that

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you very much for your kind words, which sound particularly pleasant to my ears as doing something "fine and stylish" has always been my aim. I'll definitely keep going and trying to improve every time. Thank you for your support!

[@TanzanianRoots]

The Prestige was my daily driver in the 90's. Rolled like a ship in a storm on windy roads but the back seat was indeed sweet. Ciggarette lights all round :)

[@punkpokret]

One more interesting fact :-) When you opened the boot, the flor was flat, so you could sit in the boot like you see people do that in Range Rovers now days. And yes, i did get familiar with every inch of the car and simply loved it for what that car had to offer :-) PS: Great video!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Cool! Love reading the people's memories with the cars I cover. Thank you for sharing this with me and for your appreciation!

[@through_changes]

Really nice Matteo! I love the CX! Especially the GTI versions are aeroplanes for the road! I traveled once in one for a long journey, and I will never forget the feeling of traveling in the clouds! Very special car!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! The love for Citroen is big in Greece, I'm told. A friend of mine owned a GTI Turbo, and it was fantastic to travel with. Truly amazing cars indeed.

[@BanjoLuke1]

A nice video, clearly made by someone who "gets" that era of Citroën. The Prestige was very, very rare in the UK. A stylish piece of panache on wheels...

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! I'm as much as a hardcore fan of Citroen as I am for Alfa. My fascination with Citroen started when I was little: www.roadster-life.com/post/a-love-letter-to-the-citroen-bx

[@poovaneswaransupramaniam6706]

A fabulous car... For an interesting time

[@Ts.Dotsov]

Amazing 😍 real Citroen ❤️

[@Matteo_Licata]

Wonderful indeed. I hope I'll soon get to film another CX :)

[@johnguttink]

I owned 2 DS and later 3 CX, all of them fantastic cars. They don't make them like that anymore.

[@nomebear]

In the U.S. the CX Prestige is rare. There happens to be a Citroën mechanic in my neighborhood where a CX is parked outside his shop. Cosmetically, it's very rough. But even in its sad state, it's an eye-catcher and always beckons a closer look.

[@petretoma96]

Produced in 22,673 copies, the Prestige is 25 cm longer than the standard CX saloon The Limousine is filling the gap from 22k to 29k,so about 7k of them beeing produced with Diesel engines only.Production for the Limousine started in the 1980 the interior will be similar to the CX Athena or CX Pallas depending on the owner request Their refined finish and luxurious equipment of the Prestige make them exclusive cars intended at the time for a certain elite. That’s why they’re so popular today. 2 types of Prestige are particularly sought after, the 2400 carbu from 1976 to July 77, the one with the flat roof and the Prestige Turbo from 1985 to 1989. Both are coveted for their rarity, the first for its authenticity and the second for its performance and because it represents the top of the CX range, there has been nothing above it.

[@wildewulf-9873]

I have only seen one of these cars similar to this one. It was at the Louisiana State Fair back in the late 1970s.Someone drove it there as it was in the parking lot. There was several people gawking at it.One of the people there called it a "French Cadillac" I have wanted to own one of these Citroens ever since then.

[@joshuaagassi2874]

Looks very cool to sit inside. A shame cars today don't look so pleasant to sit in, even the luxury ones. I also notice the radio between the two front seats. weird location lol.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Very true. The CX feels luxurious even if the materials and finish are often anything but! That radio location does look like an afterthought, yes! The Citroen GS and GSA also had the radio slot on the tunnel.

[@stevesrover]

Such fantastic cars!

[@Matteo_Licata]

The Rover SD1 was super-cool too. Pity that seemingly no such car remains in Italy, I’d gladly film one!

[@stevesrover]

@@Matteo_Licata I’m sure there are a few knocking about!

[@MicrobyteAlan]

These have always been a favorite of mine. Unfortunately they aren’t in the states. Another interesting story. Thanks

[@Matteo_Licata]

All CXs are well beyond the 25-year-old limit, so you can always import one to the USA if you want

[@acl6573]

Probably my favourite car... top of the wish list.

[@dumrick]

Great video as usual, Matteo and thanks for coming back to the brand that I loved in my childhood! A tidbit that I learned from Michael Buurma's book on the CX is that initially the vynil roof was mandatory on the Prestige because it served to hide a welding seam, since the roof panel was made in 2 parts. Years later, they developed a single stamped panel and the vynil cover became an option.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Interesting! I didn't know the first Prestiges had a seam on the roof... I have to investigate further on this :) Thank you and glad you love Citroens as much as I do. These were truly great cars

[@deepakhazareesingh44]

I had the privilege to be chauffeur driven in one in 1978 (I was a 15 year old kid at the time) while returning from school. The car (a pallas) was a government car allocated to a friend of my father (a minister) and, yes , the comfort was second to none- un tapis roulant, as the French would say- not even the XM- I drove one a few years ago- came close to it.;

[@Matteo_Licata]

That’s a great story, thank you for sharing it with me!

[@BloggsyMalone]

Adore classic Citroens.

[@Walkercolt1]

And it's a Pinifarira designed designed body, almost a perfect copy of the Lancia Beta Sedan on steroids! My late ophthalmologist was a "DS" owner from the mid-50's on. I almost bought a Maserati/ CX Coupe, a Euro-steerable headlight version with the turbo V-6. Sounded almost as sexy as a Ferrari. Wound up in a Euro-spec '76 Quattroporte 4.9 Saloon. Finest automobile I'll ever own. 14,400 RPM, 18,000 RPM "Orange Lined" desdomonic valved (no valve springs, fingers open and close valves) V-8 @ 168 MPH with 5 adults, 250 lbs. luggage, OBSERVED returning from a funeral in Central Arkansaw (Near Dardanelle, Paris to be exact) to Tussa, Okra-Homer on Pirelli P-Zero tyres. Passed an OHP near Poteau at about 11:00 PM and he just waved me on...anything with steerable headlamps, amber side markers and Lucas driving lights on with 50 MPH on top of his Crown Vic's top speed, he wasn't going to mess with.

[@MCTonra]

You have an eye for the best of the best!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! You too, given you've watched this video ;)

[@harishadjivassiliou1671]

Superb presentation for the ideal car !

[@Matteo_Licata]

Glad you liked it!

[@gearhead9828]

What a wonderful car. Probably my favourite French car, right after the SM. Thanks a lot for this cool video, ciao 🙋‍♂️

[@studiocalder818]

My French ranking (from the seventies with a special guest from the 50s:) haha! : 1.Citroën Ds 2. CX 3. SM 4.Alpine 110 5.Renault 5 6.Simca coupé

[@gearhead9828]

@@studiocalder818 Simca Coupe I totally forgot, so beautiful! Like a pocket Ferrari 250 GT Lusso. Peugeot 504 Coupe also not bad, Pininfarina design.

[@studiocalder818]

@@gearhead9828 😉 504 coupé, indeed! Simca, a sort of mix between Bertone, Ferrari, ASA and Abarth!

[@Matteo_Licata]

My pleasure! Thank you!

[@raufsahin334]

I always admire these cars . Got a ZX 2.0 ..a good car it is ..once more ..tq for the videos ..

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! I’ve always loved Citroëns too, ever since I was a child and my dad had a BX

[@martinclapton2724]

A proper Citroen when their unique blend of engineering individualism and space age looks have earned them a proper identity . The last deal Citroen may have been the Zantia. Unfortunately modern manufacturing has diluted the heritage of many great names and Citroen has followed this trend. I never rode or driven in one myself, but on meeting a few owners of the CX there was nothing but praise .

[@chrtsi6912]

How sad Citroen lost her unique car *mojo* over the last years... ⏫ 😢

[@Matteo_Licata]

It seems they want to try recapture some of that in the future, but we'll see how they'll go about it.

[@chrtsi6912]

@@Matteo_Licata I wish to be true because it's such an extraordinary automotive company that needs to embrace her history! (maybe it is time for an electric 2CV... to accompany my other two sweethearts! 💞)

[@vonrammstein8984]

They did NOT, look at the C6, it is us, our generations are far too conservative and we are not open to any innovations or out of the box thinking, slowly our individuality is slipping away which has made car makers go out of business, Saab, Rover and Alfa's life is also in the balance.

[@mattw8332]

The CX has earned its place in my dream garage. I'm not bother how quick it is, I just want to 'waft' along in one. I never realised that they were shorter than the DS. 🤔

[@Matteo_Licata]

I agree with you. Much like the DS, I really don't care how fast it goes, it's not the point of the car. The CX saloon doesn't look 28 cm shorter than the DS, but the difference in space, especially at the rear, is apparent once you step inside. Meanwhile, the Prestige is really a treat for those seating at the back.

[@jean-pierredeclemy7032]

​@@Matteo_Licata The amazing thing about the CX is the short space you could parallel park into with the self centering steering even though it was a long car. Basically governed by the diagonal dimension of the car. The DS is tricky to park parallel because the rear track is so much narrower.

[@shone8866]

Great video, as always 👍👌

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@happyhermit2022]

Fantastic review of a lovely car....thank you 🤗

[@Matteo_Licata]

Glad you’ve enjoyed it, thank you!

[@kelemenkaban2505]

Now I am heartbroken. I considered myself a gearhead more or less, but I was not aware that Citroen produced the CX with two different wheelbases... Thanks Matteo for reminding me, that you cannot know everything. Nice video about a nice car BTW :D

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you! I think it's truly impossible to know everything about cars. Too many brands, models and design features... Personally, I know a lot about Italian cars, Citroens, post-war British cars as well... But I know little about Audis, for example. My knowledge is quite superficial on Fords and Opels too... And the only Japanese automaker whose history I know well is Mazda.

[@ollieoneill5961]

Lovely looking car ..and well done with the information.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!

[@g00dfeeling]

TA, DS, CX, XM and C6 is the coolest lineage ever with CX as my favorite.

[@jean-pierredeclemy7032]

I have owned all but the C6 and still have my DS so I guess that is my favourite.

[@reinerhildebrand5915]

@@jean-pierredeclemy7032 i can tell you that the C6 is better, more perfect, more comfortable, but much more boring than the CX. DS and CX, the cars of my life. C6 for everyday's shopping tour.

[@danpeto5036]

Very nice video, thanks 😊

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you !!!

[@antonioliguori9906]

Una delle poche auto più belle di sempre !

[@jamesjames3525]

A true trail blazer.

[@metusalem543]

Bin verschiedene Citroen CX Modelle gefahren, der CX hatte viele Konstruktionsfehler, z.T. schlechte Verarbeitung. Habe die Lenkung bei diesem Auto mit entworfen auch die Kurvenstabilisation und Serienreif gemacht. War schon ein außergewöhnliches Auto. Meinen Französischen Entwicklungskollegen wurde beim Studium eingebläut, ein Auto muß 8 Jahre halten, höchstens 10. In den Schwellern war kein Oberflächenschutz vorhanden. Bei der Servolenkung mußte über eine Nonius - Einstellung, links oben im Motorraum die Abdrift zur Mitte eingestellt werden. Die Lenkung stellte sich immer wieder auf Geradeausfahrt, wenn man die Hände vom Lenkrad nahm, oder in Stand, oder während der Fahrt, Citroen wollte das so. War ein Rad vorne etwas mehr abgelaufen, zog die Lenkung das Fahrzeug kontinuierlich zu der Seite, die Abdrift mußte dann neu eingestellt werden. Der CX hatte keine Blinkerrückstellung, wie bei allen Modellen. Die Hydropneumatische Federung war anfällig, funktionierte sehr gut bei langgezogenen Bodenwellen. Falls man damit kurze Bodenwellen befuhr wurde man durchgeschüttelt. Je höher man die Federung einstellte ( Bodenfreiheit per Handhebeleinstellung ), um so härter wurde die Federung, im Gelände nicht brauchbar. Der Motor war quer angeordnet, da gab es nur 4 Zylinder Motoren. Die Nockenwelle wurde per Zahnrad angetrieben, das war hervorragend, da gab es keine Zahnriemen - Risse, keine Intervalle Zahnriemenwechsel. Der Anlasser kam von Rone Paris, dauernd kaputt, erst als es einen Bosch Anlasser gab war Ruhe. War eine Haßliebe, wenn er nicht irgendwelche Ausfälle hatte hat man das Auto geliebt. Wenn er dann abgeschleppt werden mußte, was häufiger vorkam, ging das nur mit Abschleppstange oder das Auto aufladen. Wenn der Motor nicht lief, hatte man keine Lenkhilfe, auch keine Bremse, das war sehr gefährlich. Kann ein Lied von dem Modell, auch vom Modell GS / GSX singen ! Bin dann nach Jahren auf VW und Mercedes Umgestiegen, da kehrte Ruhe und Zuverlässigkeit ein.

[@ruicosta1898]

Great! Always “ good taste” ✌️😊

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thanks! 😊

[@trevorsanders5303]

So nice to hear the name pronounced properly

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you!!!

[@michaelroberts889]

I own several classic cars but one of my favorites is my SM. When l find the right DS it will be added also.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Wow, cool... Which year and color?

[@michaelroberts889]

@@Matteo_Licata lt is a silver 72. Last year l had the engine rebuilt by my Maserati shop (have a 70 Ghibli SS and 63 Sebring) so it was rebuilt to Merak SS spec giving the car the performance it deserves. I just love driving it!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Cool! That sounds awesome, congratulations. I know of a gold SM in my area, and I’ll try filming it in the near future. I’ve already done a video about the SM, but it’s a subject I’ll never tire of revisiting ;)

[@michaelroberts889]

@@Matteo_Licata 👍

[@TheAllMightyGodofCod]

There probably better cars, more beautiful cars, faster etc but no car has caught my imagination as this one. As a kid I was mesmerised when I saw one, specially if the hydropneumatic suspion was going up. I just hoped my C4 had a little more of CX/GS ADN in it! Great work Matteo!

[@Matteo_Licata]

I can fully relate, as I was captivated by Citroëns as a child too. Thank you, glad you liked it!

[@jncg2311]

Great video, some beautiful footage of some little seen design details of the car. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on how the ZF automatic gearbox suited the car. I believe they were standard on the Prestige (not Prestige Turbo) but are not so often seen on the CX25 where they were an option.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you very much! I don't know whether the auto was standard or an option on the CX 25 Prestige, but it certainly wouldn't have it any other way. The CX Prestige is all about wafting in comfort, so I'd have the auto all day. Changes were very smooth and the car pulled nicely.

[@adamv242]

I would give almost anything to own a CX, XM or Peugeot 505. French cars are incredibly rare in the US.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Most examples have already passed the 25 years mark, so you can always import one :) Thank you for watching!

[@wildewulf-9873]

I have only seen one Citroen car similar to this in late 1970s.It was at the Louisiana State Fair.Someone had driven it to the fair and there were several people gawking at it.One person there called it a "French Cadillac".I have wanted to own one of these type of cars ever since then.

[@paullacey2999]

All big Citroens have been iconic.People sadly nowadays want German cars,which turn out to be not as indestructible as the media claims...

[@Matteo_Licata]

Indeed. German manufacturers still trade on the reputation they built decades ago, but nowadays there's no real difference in the way cars are made in one place or another. Suppliers, technologies and processes are similar throughout the industry now.

[@matirs342]

I tend to think that the '70s is a decade that car design forgot as I see most cars rather uninspiring. Apparently the French didn't get the memo and still made good looking (if rather odd) cars. Always liked how they did things in an unusual way. It's good to see, the French trying to get back to these sort of cars with the DS range.

[@user-fy5rd8ie1e]

تحفه فنيه السيارات القديمه❤️❤️💪💪💪 اجمل من الحديثه

[@marcbrasse747]

Average car consumer: "I think old Citroëns look stupid." Me: "Go wash out your mouth, you philistine!" :-)

[@Matteo_Licata]

😂👍

[@GreasyFingers]

😂😂

[@jean-pierredeclemy7032]

A work colleague came up with the theory that the Citroen design team would design the front of the car in the morning, then take a two hour lunch break drinking a bottle of wine each, then pop round to see their mistresses for a session before rushing back to work to scribble out the design of the back end before rushing home to their wives.

[@marcbrasse747]

@@jean-pierredeclemy7032 He drinks a lot himself, doesn't he? Give my greetings to his liver but don't take too long! :-)

[@michaelroberts889]

It takes a special enthusiast to love Citroens. I like it like that. When l take my SM to cars and coffee l'm usually the only Citroen there!

[@38thsignal]

(I would never have guessed that the CX was almost 20cm shorter than the DS, though. Shows how much the sloping back makes the older car look smaller than it actually is.)

[@Matteo_Licata]

I think the CX's considerably lower roof height compared to the DS contributes to making it look longer than it is.

[@punkpokret]

This came as big surprise to me also. Very interesting fact.

[@marcbrasse747]

PS: I think the series 2 CX interior is one of the best ever, especially in the Turbo's "fishgrate" cloth. Only the DS's original design might surpass it. And I mean all that universaly speaking, so not only when judging Citroëns!

[@Matteo_Licata]

I'm a big fan of the CX series 2 interior, yes! The Turbo also had those lovely wide headrests that were so cool :) But the purer exterior design of the earliest CX is hard to beat though. If I were to buy one myself, I'd go for an early one.

[@marcbrasse747]

@@Matteo_Licata I fully agree. I was purely talking interiors. So what about a series 1 with a series 2 Turbo interior then? I am not a stickler for full series originality. I've got a series 1 grille, steering wheel and Seduction hub caps on my series 2 XM and it's the best looking of them all (according to me at least :-) ).

[@Matteo_Licata]

@@marcbrasse747 The Seduction hubcaps are a class act :) I do prefer to keep cars as close to originality as it's reasonably possible. But I'm also open to tasteful mods in keeping with period style... Or full-on restomods, but in that case only if the base car was a wreck.

[@marcbrasse747]

@@Matteo_Licata Just a tastefull (?) combination of original Citroën parts, like there also are so many beautifull DS/ID "mashups". But me probably a tiny little philistine myself, ugh! Do however not judge my little darling untill you have actually seen it! For instance: A series 2 XM interior with a series 1 steering wheel is a thing to behold. If only Citroën had done it like this themselves. :-)

[@sotirisbakaimis3276]

great automobile!!!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Yes indeed! Thank you for watching :)

[@jimmyj1969]

IMHO, the apex of the CXs were the 8-seated Station Wagon!

[@jean-pierredeclemy7032]

The only downside was that you ended up driving a party of eight to the restaurant every time and couldn't drink (much).

[@spinnetti]

Never loved the CX, but I thought the Ax was cute at least. The DS era was end of the glory days.

[@georgepayne9895]

I had a CX2500 in the early 1980's, bought it to tow my caravan. Loved it, but it damn nearly killed me, 0200 I went to sleep at the wheel, ended up in the ditch....too comfortable by half!

[@ollieoneill5961]

It might be a long shot . but one of my fav. Fiat cars is the 127 . would it be possible to do a small piece on that one . they were a big seller in Ireland in the 80s. Very few left on the road . mk 1s are totally gone . maybe lucky to find a mark 2. Or 3. The sports model was pretty popular, on and off road . thank you again . your work is great ... Love from Ireland

[@Matteo_Licata]

Well, I do know where to find a nice mk1 127 to film... We currently are under stricter covid restrictions, but I’ll keep your suggestion in mind and film that 127 as soon as it’ll be possible

[@ollieoneill5961]

@@Matteo_Licata thank you very much . hope all is good with the covid thing . look after yourselves. Ollie x

[@arelortal6580]

My favourite car.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Given the views this video has made, many share your opinion :)

[@Dan-up6do]

Great review of a superb car Matteo, i do have a question. Where does the Pallas fit into the range when compared to the Prestige ?

[@Matteo_Licata]

Thank you Dan! The Pallas trim level, being the best one could get on the standard-wheelbase CX saloon, sat below the long-wheelbase-only Prestige in the CX's pecking order.

[@Dan-up6do]

@@Matteo_Licata Thank you for clearing that up, I'd often wondered what the difference was 👍

[@davidvesely6240]

CX je pro mně nejhezčí kára,co doposud Citroen vyrobil,pokud pominu XM anebo SM.Jo, to byly časy

[@Bamsebrakar2011]

It’s a pity PSA could not reengineer the CX to fit the V6 PRV engine, but had to wait 15 years until the launch of its successor the XM. It would have made the CX a more serious contender in the high-end market.

[@Matteo_Licata]

I've read that PRV-engined CX prototypes were actually made, but it was ultimately decided to go the turbo route instead.

[@Bamsebrakar2011]

@@Matteo_Licata That’s very interesting to know. Although 4 cylinder turbocharging became increasingly popular as a ‘sporty’ high-end route in the 1980s (e.g. Saab 9000, Volvo 740, Lancia Thema and others) it was not very refined, and the CX would never be a sports car in any case. If Citroen could fit the PRV engine (a true ‘allrounder’) which PSA had a big stake in, it is somewhat hard to understand why they would not use it, esp. in the Prestige version.

[@studiocalder818]

Mechanically a bit messed up, in any case a splendid sedan sculpture, second only to the Deesse

[@francescoorlando9444]

@Roadster Life You should do a video on the Fiat X1/79 prototype. I would love to know more about it!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Prototypes haven’t generated too many views on this channel so far. Perhaps because fewer people can relate with them. But I’d love to film a X1/9 again... That will certainly happen!

[@francescoorlando9444]

@@Matteo_Licata I mean the X1/79 prototype, not the X1/9 It was basically what was supposed to be the Cinquecento, yet it seems to be one of Fiat's best kept secrets

[@Matteo_Licata]

Ok, gotcha! Should be preserved in the company collection... I can’t promise you I’ll cover it soon, as it risks being a flop from a views standpoint, but I’ll look into it ;)

[@mainiotaainetta]

Multo bello!🤌

[@car4you447]

Molto bella la macchina targata a Verona

[@zouphout]

😍

[@rabit818]

I had a chance to buy a1980s CX for $5000 in 2009, clean ext, clean int but I don’t know anything about Citroen engines. Beautiful car but I’m not ready for s&m of maintenance. I’ll stick to Philippe Starck chairs for now.

[@martijnkosters9024]

Sacre bleu! A non-italian on Roadster Life?!

[@Matteo_Licata]

Oh yes! There have been a few non-Italian cars on this channel before, and many more will come in the future. Although Italian cars are my main area of expertise, my tastes extend much further than the tight confines of Italy :)