French Sophistication: 1949 Citroën Traction Avant - Jay Leno’s Garage

Front wheel drive, monocoque, independent suspension, and elegant style allowed the innovative Traction Avant to pave the way for future Citroën models.
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French Sophistication: 1949 Citroën Traction Avant - Jay Leno’s Garage
• French Sophistication:...
Jay Leno's Garage
/ jaylenosgarage

[@loloamex]

I am French and I want to say thank you for these videos on French cars it is comforting to hear good from our dear old cars. This traction reminds me of my childhood, the smell of hot oil, the Grandfather happy to drive this wonderful car, the tree-lined roads in the direction of Normandy to go to Deauville, yes what good memories! Thank you.

[@desalpagesgator4988]

Comment ça ? Merde alors !!! But, alors, you are french ?

[@gerardlouis7768]

Excellent qu'il a ces voitures, n'est ce pas ?

[@BigFiveJack]

With my wife, I visited Paris 15 or more years ago, and it was breathtakingly beautiful. I will never forget the art treasures that I was able to see!!!!!!!!

[@raphaelf-ci8yc]

You are welcome here brother🇫🇷

[@Littlelewie151]

I am American and I have to say the Citroëns are my favorite in his collection. My all time favorite car was made by Renault

[@Kaputnik11]

Jay by himself is always best

[@pat8593]

he needs a lighting crew.

[@nslouka90]

I have a feeling he’s got at least 1 other person with him, jay doesn’t come off as tech savvy enough to use cameras.

[@natsumi3058]

Agreed. He is definitely more at ease and you can really see his love for all thing automotive when he is not having to entertain with a passenger.

[@jasoncarpp7742]

I agree. I've always loved Jay Leno's Garage, but this *"pandemic"* edition makes it more personal. I like that.

[@nslouka90]

Eroru Furakku the cars name is Christine...she’s off camera and you can see Jay start to sweat motor oil.

[@Davinci12007]

"Jay Leno's Garage" - the ONLY place on KZbin where there isn't an argument within 10 comments. Beautiful cars, amazing commentary and the kind of information you can't find anywhere else. Jay, you have no idea how much pleasure you have brought to millions of people all around the world. Something to be proud of that you can't possibly comprehend. "Thank you!"

[@dabearcub]

Trump was arrested yesterday.

[@jeremiahchamberlin4499]

I’m right with you on the ‘19 comments!’ I’ve learned to avoid reply trails that go on for more than 12: it’s just two guys going at each other: a waste of my time and clicks.

[@johnbochicchio2806]

Well said!

[@LegendaryGauntlet]

When Jay rides around LA in a Lambo or other exotics: no one bats an eye. When he rides one of these classics, you see everyone giving him thumbs up and taking pictures... Says a lot :) This Citroen is indeed a classic of gangster movies.

[@COIcultist]

I don't live in the sort of place where you see a lot of exotic vehicles. I get my fill going to a couple of car (car, bike & other) shows a year, but one of my biggest joys is to see old Honda Cubs on the road. The most numerous automotive vehicle ever made and it just makes me smile.

[@dmitrymalyukov9341]

It was a police (flic’s) car in France dozen years before and after WW2.

[@paulguile2199]

They were also used by the occupying Nazi

[@kattharsismic]

@@paulguile2199 as well as the FFI, best car around so they all used it :).

[@ferdinanddestouches3085]

there even was a gang of robbers who always used those cars just after the war "le gang des tractions avant". They could easily beat coppers with citroën and wwII surplus machine guns...wild funny times they had back in the days...

[@ModelA]

I love these "one camera and a tripod" editions of Jay Leno's Garage. Jay really packs a LOT of knowledge into these.

[@IggyWon]

I kinda wish he would get someone to adjust the white level so I wasn't blinded every time I see a pandemic edition vid.

[@spacepope-1]

I especially like the footage of his thumb lol

[@BryonLetterman]

I never expected a comedian to also be so damn knowledgeable about the history of cars

[@thetreblerebel]

And we get more of HIS cars that would not normally go on to the show..

[@Fleetwoodjohn]

I say enough with the “pandemic” editions. People feel compelled to show off how they are following the rules. Would it really matter if he had a cameraman on hand? He would be 6ft plus from him anyway! I’m sure he’s got his guys helping anyway. Anyways...I always enjoy your videos Jay. Your a real dude and a car guy. 😎

[@oliverbentley8125]

I love this philosophy : loving cars is not always a matter of high speed and doing burn-outs as say Jay but sometimes that's just to appreciate the comfort and the simple joy to drive on the road in a nice car.

[@millomweb]

Most of us love a picture with stunning colours, stunning scenery - but not everywhere is like that. Sometimes it's good to have a break and appreciate subtleties in colours, shades and patterns rather than in yer face impactful colours.

[@danam0228]

That's why I miss the Cadillac Fleetwood Broughams, Lincoln Continentals and Chrysler Fifth Avenues. Everything is now built to take on the Nurbigring (sp?)

[@loboalamo]

Amen!

[@MrCarGuy]

Same reason why modern pop automotive culture is ridiculously toxic.

[@kim007250]

True

[@leonardberg5012]

Another interesting thing about Andre Citroen is that in the 1920's he paid to have an enormous sign in electric lights that spelled the word Citroen from top to bottom on the Eiffel Tower. It was probably the largest advertising sign ever on display

[@TomTom-xp2jb]

Thx Leonard! Interesting advertising history. Citroën seems to be on the cutting edge of more than just auto design. 👍🌟👏

[@joeseefeld190]

The was the world's largest according to Guiness book of world records

[@philipdubuque9596]

This episode really brought back memories! I was a kid from Massachusetts born the year this car was made. I stuck my thumb out for a ride in Ostend, Belgium on a foggy night in '71 and a guy driving this exact car gave me a lift all the way to the Dutch border. My French wasn't too bad so I got the whole history of the car from the driver/owner. Thanks for a great video!

[@ungurdani8346]

PLS ,DONATE A SUBSCRIBER FOR A CAUSE

[@ignatiusreilly4736]

There are some few people who really love cars in did. Most KZbinrs dont love cars, they love the things that cars represents: money, Power, luxury. Jay leno loves cars. He can make a review of a old Citroën and amaze everyone telling the history of minor details. Most "car enthusiast" need expensive cars to show because they dont see anything in a old Citroën. They never test cars under 100k uSs, cause they only like kinda things like tons of csbon fiber or diamonds in the dashboard of a millón dólar car. That is not a car enthusiast, thats money enthusiast

[@truthseeker8483]

Most youtubers know nothing about cars

[@phillipevans9414]

ignatius reilly. You are so right...I don't watch those other KZbin w*nkers.

[@maconp1119]

Watch Harry’s garage or Tyrells classic workshop. Those are 2 other honest gear heads British but ok.

[@truthseeker8483]

@@maconp1119 They are indeed..another great one is project binky

[@jami7772]

You are correct. I like Alfa Romeos and also appreciate their history in racing which translated into their road cars. I mean who can forget the glorious busso engine !

[@rogerpritchard]

We're lucky to have Jay, he's a true gentleman in the automotive industry. He takes his time, and narrates in such a clear wonderful manner. I thank him for sharing his incredible car collection with us.👍🧐🎩

[@zephyr332]

I'd like him a lot more if he'd toss a couple million my way. Then maybe I could buy some food or.... maybe.... have some kind of a life. And I don't expect charity though. I have two capable hands that would be willing to work for my shillings.

[@zephyr332]

@Dennis Patrick LMFAO! You silly goose!

[@deansheley2489]

Amen. This world needs more Jay Lenos

[@panzerkami2381]

Agreed. I believe that part of the reason his videos are so calming and genuine is that he does not need to do this. I'm sure that whatever he makes from these videos is insignificant for him. That means he's never "selly", he doesn't have to do what "generates traffic" he can just do what he wants, talk about what he wants and take as much time as he wants. What a difference to all the "Here's my Patreon! Like and subscribe! Give me money!" channels.

[@HotWheelsBurban]

​@@zephyr332

[@jean-philippenoiville7937]

Thanks from France, Jay, for this video. Just to set the record straight about the history of this car : the first model, the 4-cylinder 7 HP, was introduced in March 1934 under André Citroën management. At the Paris motor show in October 1934, Citroën displayed a V-8 version, the 22 HP, more or less a prototype. Citroën went into receivership in December 1934, Michelin took over, André Citroën had to make way for a Michelin-appointed manager (he passed away in July 1935). Michelin killed off the 22 HP and concentrated on improving the reliability of the mass-market 7 and 11 HP 4-cylinder models. After all the initial bugs were fixed the 4-cylinders enjoyed market success and Michelin decided to add an upmarket version, the 6-cylinder 15 HP, in June 1938. About 48,000 of them were built, almost all of them after WW II (like this 1949 model). The trunk lid, the net under the ceiling, the elaborate steering wheel, etc. were aftermarket accessories and not factory options.

[@badbusiness2113]

Merci beaucoup

[@lordbogus6709]

A v8 with 22 HP?! 6 cil with 15?! 😳 such low hp for today

[@jean-philippenoiville7937]

@@lordbogus6709 The "HP" figure meant French "tax" HP, the actual power was 77 HP for the 6 cyl and around 100 for the V-8

[@ALJEMARO-dl9jd]

Hello, the HP numbers were not reflecting the true power of the motor but what was called in France the “tax power” (puissance fiscale) which was calculated based on the number of cm3 of the motor and later on the gearbox ratios. Based on this value was calculated the tax you had to pay to have your numberplate, and also to calculate another tax you had to pay every year. This was put in place to encourage people to buy small vehicles that were supposed to consume less gasoline.

[@yannickribau8101]

being French you have no idea how heartwelming this is... Loved it !

[@donelmore2540]

Jay had a Peugeot 404 as a kid. Ask him to do a video on Peugeots. I’ve had 2 403s, a 404 and a 504 diesel. Loved them!

[@bennythepooh4905]

Usually the remarks about French cars are negative but Jay is an automotive aficionado and has a passion for cars and bikes across the spectrum.

[@hughjazzole2037]

I had an R10 Renault & it was a really fun car to drive,,

[@stevenwilliams8152]

@@hughjazzole2037 i've owned a Ds 21, Cx, Bx, XM and now i'm looking for my one and only dream car , "Traction avant big body with the straight 6 as jay has, but the slough built right hand drive version, ive only ever seen 3 for sale and always above my budget. i mean who would'nt want to own one of the first ever front wheel drive production cars ever built. I personally adore the things, its still a very usable vehicle today, but with a lost style and class of its own.

[@ferdinanddestouches3085]

@@stevenwilliams8152 french made left-hand drive aren't so expensive if you cross the channel...You'll manage to find one in France if you want to travel through burgundy, Normandy...

[@theodor12]

The fact that the paint is original is just amazing!

[@robertanon1910]

yes seeing how gorgeous it was it was hard to believe, and also condition underneath.

[@deansheley2489]

Lacquer paint will last forever if you care for it.

[@shutyourpieholeboy877]

@@deansheley2489 its not laquer mate its stoving enamel. Nitrocellulose laquers didn't have close to that reflection.

[@newtonwhatevs]

They don't buid'em like these anymore... No planned obsolescence in there!

[@TheChzoronzon]

@@Stupetin Coherent with your nick, I see

[@SquillyMon]

Jay really is a true Gear Head. He can appreciate almost every machine for its engineering, regardless of price, no matter what it may be.

[@robertkochou5412]

Great introduction as always Mr. Leno, Jay .

[@robertamoyaw1979]

A child craves a bedtime story, A car guy craves a Jay Leno's Garage Episode just b4 bedtime! 😊

[@ordinosaurs]

Would you believe it, I was once a passenger in a Traction like this one, with a phaeton body (longer wheelbase with two folding seats facing the rear seat bench), and it was on a British motorway of all places ! This car is a beast, and the face of the other motorists we overtook was priceless. The owner was the epitome of Britishness, including a slightly barmy exclusive interest in Citroën cars of which he owned no less than five or six, including a very rare right-hand drive convertible. I had come from France for an internship, and he drove us young students stranded on foreign soil on the week-ends to auto conventions. What fun we had in that job.

[@julienbee3467]

Was that long ago ?

[@ordinosaurs]

@@julienbee3467 : As much as don't like to admit it, sadly, yes. It was circa May 1992. 32 years ago. Where did all that time went ?

[@MrMenefrego1]

*What an amazing example of a well cared for automobile! Every auto manufacturer on earth would go out of business in no time if we all took such good care of our automobiles! I am blessed to have inherited a 1980 Lincoln, Versailles from my father in 2011 with just 66,000 miles on the odometer. My father took such excellent overall care of his prized little Lincoln that by the time he willed her to me it was like getting a new car. He ordered his Versailles with every available option in 1980, even a 'moon-roof'! I live in The Netherlands in Europe now that I am retired and that little Lincoln is perfect for the small streets of the local Dutch and European towns. I'd much rather have my father of course but, having his much loved Lincoln is as close as I'll get. Don't worry, I'm taking good care of your beloved Lincoln, Rest in Peace, Dad.*

[@badapple65]

That’s gotta be fun seeing Jay driving around in public. Such a nice man of the people he is. Much respect for him.

[@kadendaniels934]

@John Barber he's literally said that he drives these expensive cars on the road so that other people who can't afford them or drive them can still experience them driving around

[@TheMissP76]

I am a french writer and this gave me an insight of the driving of tractions avant, which was very helpful for my story! Thanks so much.

[@alfredsmith2322]

Jay is on my list of three famous people with whom I'd like to have dinner. But it's not necessary. I feel like I know him already. Thanks Jay. An American treasure.

[@goodboybuddy1]

I love to hear you “babble “ Uncle Jay. You are an acclaimed comedic genius. Now you can relax and enjoy sharing your amazing cars with us. What a lovely time this was. Thanks!

[@LessTrustMoreTruth]

To sound corny, Jay is the greatest treasure in that garage! We must protect him at all costs!

[@maconp1119]

Jay, please do all of your shows like this! Far more entertaining and much more informative without another person present.

[@jfk64kennedy95]

It is a fool who gets mad when corrected, It is an intelligent man who appreciates being corrected Jay just showed who he is...and he no fool

[@KevAlberta]

Time stamp?

[@jfk64kennedy95]

@@KevAlberta 4:40

[@stumccabe]

I owned the "Light 15" version - four cylinder. I bought it from a friend of my dad for the equivalent of $1, he just wanted to get rid of it! This was in the early 70s. It needed new piston rings which of course weren't available but we found Toyota rings of the same diameter (slightly wider so the grooves needed a little widening). I loved the opening windshield. My car was built in 1948 and the red leather seats were still in superb condition. I ended up selling it - I wish I could get it back!

[@_pacalis]

Jay Leno is becoming the Bob Ross of cars. I love it.

[@jfrorn]

I just love that he puts cars on the lift nowadays....

[@peterjones9732]

And then puts his finger over the lens like a proper old man🤣

[@TheNextGoogification]

Yes I wish you would put every car on the lift. Also I like it when people explain the car a little bit more, and that case he could say was front-wheel drive and then it has the two driveshafts they both have a universal at both ends and they're open prone to dirt and stuff they're not in clothes like the ones today, if that makes any sense

[@radioguy1620]

wish i could, i sure would.

[@shutyourpieholeboy877]

No wonder, that lifts a peach

[@davidjames2788]

I love that shifter! Citroen always had to be a little different, and that's what makes them great. I much prefer this kind of video over the crazy 200mph cars of modern day.

[@davidjames2788]

@Lassi Kinnunen Exactly! I pay so little attention to Ferraris, Lamborghinis, etc because they all look and act the same, and I'll never be able to afford one... Even if I could afford one, I'd probably just buy a few Corvettes haha.

[@mopsnuf]

DS and SM are dream cars, right with the most exciting and fascinating vehicles ever made. And they made a lot more cool stuff.

[@davidjames2788]

@@mopsnuf Agreed! Do you watch Coldwarmotors' videos? If not, I highly recommend, they're in the middle of restoring an SM, and just finished a DS. By far one of my favorite KZbin channels.

[@mopsnuf]

@@davidjames2788 Thanks for the tip, didn't know them. I'll return the favour to you by recommending Tyrells Classic Workshop then, a new channel with decades of history restoration and maintenance works in the most awesome vintage cars.

[@davidjames2788]

@@mopsnuf Thanks, I'll definitely have to give them a look.

[@ducomaritiem7160]

I'm from the Netherlands, born in '63. My parents drove Citroen 2 chevaux, Diane, and Aca Diane, I owned a BX. ( Sadly enough, it went up in flames) all nice rides and good memories of driving through France in the holidays. Those were good times. I would love to drive a Traction Avant. Thanx Jay!

[@julienbee3467]

Did you enjoy the acadiane too ?

[@moniquelee3623]

Best synthesis ever made of the Traction Avant. If André Citroën had been alive in 1949, he would no doubt have hired you as head of communications Jay. As an ambassador of French engineering, you remain a real and objective reference.

[@roelkomduur8073]

André Citroën didn't need a head of communications. He was a genius in all things PR.. He was the one that made light up the Eiffel tower with his name.. ( and Phillips lighting btw) He unfortunately got swindled out of his own company by antisemitic rivals...Til this day there is no real recognition for his genius in France. No official museum or statue in Paris.

[@grizzlygrizzle]

French engineering was huge in early aviation. And in Stephen Ambrose's book on the Panama Canal, he gives a lot of credit to French engineers. Citroen is a great example of this legacy. Renault, not so much. Nissan is better off done with its partnership with Renault.

[@jordanrighi4136]

Jay, I'm about your age and I grew up all over the world: Africa and Europe as a child, Asia and the Pacific, later, and now, in California--ouch. I will never be able to afford a single one of your great cars, but I am content to live my life vicariously through your garage. Thanks!

[@joeyscerbo7776]

Jordan Righi It sure sounds like your life was and is fun! Stay safe happy trails!

[@spacepope-1]

Well, he has an MG Midget, and those aren't too expensive, and a lot of fun

[@jordanrighi4136]

Galenda Wagen Yep! Retired military: Specials forces--23 years.

[@kimchipig]

I have two classic cars and in my opinion, living the classic car life vicariously is a pretty good idea.

[@nordimejia5790]

Wow... You went a little overboard with your love

[@1432CW]

The word "classic" is overused these days. This car was a true classic! I'm glad you rebuilt the brakes, Jay!

[@EclecticBuddha]

As Adam Carolla points out, sometime in the far future someone will research TV at the turn of the 21st century and see that the most popular late night TV host died in a steam car explosion. Then they're going to assume that steam cars were what the wealthy elite drove.

[@sylvainmichaud2262]

@@EclecticBuddha That's their way of blowing off some steam !

[@phillipvazquez2834]

It was a classic before, during, and after the term aka a true classic

[@jmbpinto73]

was designed by André Lefèbvre and Flaminio Bertoni in late 1933, with the firm intention to be very classy from the first line on the white sheet of paper.

[@yves-noel-mariegonnet1043]

Memory! Memory! 1960 - 1970: our "good old" "Traction Avant Citroën family! What memories! A robust car that steered very badly, hence several memorable adventures." But we liked it anyway! "She was part of the family and it was very sad to part with it! We gave it to a convent of good sisters! Thank you for your report, and sincere encouragement for a year 2021, with even more discoveries! Thank you!

[@leokimvideo]

I blew up one of these on the film The Quiet American. From memory this car is incredibly built and had some unusual features for it's time. In a way very Citroen. It's a classic gangster looking car Wacky Racers style.

[@marckroll9544]

Great film, underrated. Geez, blew it up!

[@mikegalvin9801]

It Was the gangster car in all the great old French noir films.

[@Shadowfax-1980]

Jay is where I’ve learned the most about national identity in automotive design philosophy.

[@CJinSD1]

Jay neglected to mention that Citroen copied the layout of this car from the American 1929 Cord L-29 and the Miller 91 racing car. He neglected to mention that the styling is a raked version of that used on the American 1934 Ford. There was some pretty selective use of historical context in this episode, almost like Jay has soured on the USA.

[@timd6671]

@@CJinSD1 Making it raked would be a French interpretation then?

[@alanlansdell7533]

@@timd6671 the styling is like a raked version of most 30s cars, and yeah he didn't mention that cord got there first but he did say that Citroen didn't invent it, he said they popularised it, and if they sold over 700 thousands of them that's probably a fair comment. Still rather have a 30 something Ford though.........

[@shamsam4]

My dad had one of these when he was in the service in Germany ; 62-63. He always raved about it. He had a German girlfriend named Katie Keller, and he was quite a fan of the roomy back seat...(I apologize to her descendants for that, also, hit me up) I've been eyeing this car in the background of your videos for a while and I'm so glad you made one about it. He would have absolutely loved your show, and I almost invariably think of him when watching your shows on classic cars; especially European ones like Bugattis. Thanks!

[@omarjette3859]

In the background there also a 2CV roadster - hope that will come up soon!

[@user-ss2ly1ir6j]

The French are lovers. That's why the huge back seat... lol

[@Mitchell.Samuels]

Was that her dress in the trunk?

[@ashleymadison9380]

My dad had a monocock also.

[@NenadTrajkovic]

@@user-ss2ly1ir6j true!👍

[@joshuuaaaa440]

You can tell jay probably took that car on a huge drive after that camera stopped rolling just sitting back and enjoying the car ! So badass

[@74Husky]

I love these Citroens. When I was a kid growing up on Long Island, one of our neighbours was a Citroen agent. He brought home one of the 1st DS19s. He showed us kids all the incredible things that car could do. Luckily he was one of the dads in our school car pool. I was amazed with that car. I really thought we were riding in a space ship. Nothing I have ever ridden in was as comfortable as that Citroen!

[@julosx]

The DS in 1954-55 didn't disappoint. The fans were as enthusiastic as they were at the TA era, about 20 years before. It outmoded pretty much anything you could compare it to ! Every other car looked like futile antiquities.

[@10gallons]

Jay. You've worked hard, you're doing what you love, and you certainly know your onions. Thanks for sharing your knowledge, wit, and passion with us!

[@jeanbonnefoy1377]

One of the cars I learned to drive with. Twas in 64, I was 14!

[@royexcellentalexander8308]

Me too was a bit younger but when l saw them l was a bit scared.alwaysblack and I thought they were so scary looking..

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

@@royexcellentalexander8308 Gangster cars!

[@royexcellentalexander8308]

@@MagicAyrtonforever vivid memories..by Leno also the model T.but this is my favorite.. what a car!!!!

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

@@royexcellentalexander8308 The runner side boards were made for Tommy gun toting gangsters 😂

[@noel400im]

As a kid in the fifties, I remember that car very well. In France it was called “la quinze”, literally “the 15”; the 4 cylinder engined one was called “la onze” (the 11). 15 and 11 referred to so-called fiscal horsepower, not actual engine horsepower. My godfather had one and I remember doing once Paris-Côte d’Azur in one day (before the days of motorways) in it. My mother used to love driving the 15, as it flew, effortlessly going 120, that is 120 km/h. Somehow, by the mid fifties, the 15 had a different, more elaborate front bumper than the 11. Jay’s looks more like the 11’s.

[@TurkGallant]

The thought of Jay setting up his camera tripod on the side of the road in his mechanic jumpsuit is a perfect one.

[@josephgaviota]

Jay is a REAL "regular guy." That's why we all appreciate him so much.

[@travishagan8951]

I always wonder who is the guy down voting Jay's videos and then I ponder how sad his life must be Who doesn't get Joy from Jay's wisdom and warmth

[@frankcolumbo9615]

Travis Hagan David letterman 🤬

[@travishagan8951]

@@frankcolumbo9615 true enough lol

[@ClayLoomis1958]

Probably Conan fan boys who blame Jay because Conan didn't have good ratings on The Tonight Show. They are subscribed, and 10 or 12 of them will downvote his vids within minutes of them being posted. Happens every time, no matter the car or subject matter.

[@jerrycraig6522]

I agree, if you don't like it, GO AWAY!!!

[@ebutuoyebutouy]

It's possible they pushed the wrong button? Like lack coordination or fat fingers?

[@wildancrazy159]

No idea WHY the down votes? This show is wonderful! Jay is in his element here .

[@truthseeker8483]

back to front baseball cap brigade.....

[@CaptHollister]

Conan fanbois. Whoever they are, they are uninterested in cars.

[@ClayLoomis1958]

Conan fans who blame Jay because Conan got low TV ratings on The Tonight Show. They are subscribed and downvote any Leno video within minutes of it being posted. Type of car makes no difference. It happens every time. These guys really hold a grudge, even though it was them that caused Conan to lose the show, not Jay.

[@millomweb]

A possible explanation is in among the comments.

[@PeterPaoliello]

Especially to click and watch the video. What does one expect when watching something on Jay's channel

[@fredherfst8148]

Ok..a strong memory from a five year old in Amsterdam. We had to move to another house and I was babysat by my rich great aunt and uncle. It was dark and raining hard. They had stuff in the back so I had to hunker down in front of the passenger seat on the floor. I got to watch the gears, the pedals and the wheel in the sparkling wet streets. It was a Citroen. It was the first real car I had seen up close and personal. Deserves to be remembered.

[@bobibest89]

Masterpiece. This car should get as much (if not more recognition) than the DS.

[@nukedathlonman]

When a car is in this nice of condition, I have to agree with leave it leaving it unrestored. Beautiful! :-) As always, thanks for sharing Jay!

[@pex_the_unalivedrunk6785]

Yeah, keeping it preserved in original condition is definitely best for a clean example such as this. Only replace the parts that are absolutely vital to have...and save the old parts for safe-keeping.

[@chazkdarwin3875]

Agreed, most can throw a heap of money at a car til it’s like new, but from experience cars are never the same after they’ve been pulled into a million pieces, but a very good original car is far more impressive these days. They’re only original once!

[@jmbpinto73]

It looks much better than my 1987 Citroen BX.

[@GT-gt4bf]

These are my favorite videos, old French cars. I love them!

[@jean-christophedamiron5456]

Merci Jay! J'habite Paris et j'ai regardé ton super reportage avec un bon verre de Bordeaux! Génial!

[@2dirkjan]

Thank you for doing this Jay. Especially in this difficult time. Greetings from Belgium. I follow this channel now for five years. Keep up doing this. It brings a lot of joy in my life.

[@oliverjd26]

Jay, these are the BEST videos. Love the format. Keep up the great work!!!

[@brucegordon4992]

Jay's production people could probably make most anyone look good. But by himself Jay's talent and knowledge and passion really shows.

[@dodi4448]

Did you know that André Citroën made a v8 version of the Traction Avant with a forth gear! The problem was that he died before the project was complete and Michelin struggled too much to make it so they decided that a 6 cylinder version was better. The V8 was 100 hp and was able to do 140 kph (87 mph) in 1934 which was very impressive

[@kylethompson6648]

He said that in this episode.

[@uleertel]

@@kylethompson6648 are you sure, maybe I missed it but I watched the episode and he talks about Michelin but not about a V8.

[@Fe_lix]

In the archive it seems a straight 8 version existed but with only 15 (!!) cars built... But no one knows where they are and if some are still existing today.

[@bluebird8004]

Are you sure it wasn't a straight 8?

[@CaptainKrimson]

@@bluebird8004 It was absolutely a V8

[@Pauljb1111]

Way back in 1980 my girlfriend and I were hitchhiking away from Mont St Michel in France and a guy in one of these beauts stopped for us. My only ride in one. What a stroke of luck!

[@johannnunweiller9634]

Beautiful! Greetings from Bucharest, Romania. You have many fans here.

[@greathornedowl3644]

WOW, what a great looking car. Large when thinking of European autos: Peugeot and Renault of the time. Love the nod to "thinking outside the box" when 30's United States was running V8, V10, V16, then VW with the

[@CrazyMrTim]

one of the earlier iterations of the VW had only 25hp lol

[@gregmtech]

i dont see how this is different from any other french car in the same category at the same time; just look up a renault Viva grand sport 1939 . or the same level peugeot 1939 402. ( wich is even closer to a trazction in style)

[@truthseeker8483]

@@gregmtech The Citroen is far superior in mechanical sophistication.

[@CaptHollister]

@@gregmtech It was, in fact, completely different from those two cars. You have to look beyond the styling.

[@V8_screw_electric_cars]

Germans had V12s

[@johnnysechrist6313]

This has to be one of my favorites in the collection.

[@adrienohmer9452]

Jay, thank you for coming back with your French marvels! As a French car enthusiast I also love Citroën and should I recommend you another of their collectable, it would be the youngtimer XANTIA Activa. As a traditional Citroën sedan it has the hydro-pneumatic suspension but mated with electronic sensors to prevent rolling in the curves. As other Citroën from the 90s and on there are valves to cut the fluid transfer (i.e. to make the suspension a bit more stiffer ("sport mode") automatically when needed. And it can go from soft to hard mode and vice-versa several time per second!) but it is the only Citroën to have also JACKS INSTEAD OF ANTIROLL BARS! Despite being "la crème de la crème" from the suspension sophistication, the accomplishment from Mr Magès' concept (inventor from the DS hydropneumatics), this car has not been a huge success because in appearance it is just a family saloon. Perhaps on a sporty coupé it would have found its way against powerful German competitors. Anyway, it still remains the QUICKEST CURVING MACHINE EVER, oui monsieur! It is faster in the curves than any supercar at the moose test! And that tour de force is an ingeneering piece of art you desurve. Perhaps Jerry Hathaway, guru of the hydropneumatics in the USA would like it also. Take care

[@gv978]

Buzz Aldrin was featured in the Xantia commercial if my memory serves well

[@CaptainSLog995]

I had a 2 litre petrol Xantia in late 90's/early 2000's - de-catted it went like stink!😆 Had a ZX and an XM Onyx but the Xantia was the best balanced and most fun. Love Citroëns!

[@timemery2937]

I had a Xantia Activa for a few years. Yes, great handling, and plenty of torque from the continual turbo, but a long way from being a performance vehicle - a standard Corolla had a better power to weight ratio. People are rightly nervous of them due to the number of spheres in play.

[@kasperskikasperski1120]

I love how he now does the vlog style undercarriage, you really notice his love for the mechanics. I would have never expected something like this from a celebrity show host pensionado. Hats of, keep driving and sharing!

[@thomasmperrot]

I never rode in one, but my cousins had an old one rotting in their barn, and we would spend hours playing in it during the holidays. Thank you Jay for bringing back those good memories!

[@robertblanchard6196]

Jay, in my eyes you'll be remembered as a car guy instead of the TV guy. F'ing awesome

[@williamwinslowhansen]

One of my favourite designs of all time . Just love this French icon .

[@D45VR]

I was born in Paris, 1948, and I fondly remember seeing these cars for years. Beautiful car.

[@saabjunkieSPG]

Great episode. The “Jay alone reviewing his own” episodes are wonderful.

[@chadsimmons6347]

I would consider Jay Leno, the greatest car salesman, that wasn't a car-salesman (thank-you)

[@albertseabra9226]

Fabulous Cars. My Father used to hsve a 1955 Model, which was top of the line for a long time. Fantastic, comfortable and very reliable. Fast and very safe on wet or dry roads. My Father engaged in a sporty, agressive type of driving. For a kid sitting on the rear seat, was not very pleasant. During the war, the GESTAPO loved the car -- there was some GESTAPO BIG-SHOT WHO USED TO DRIVE AROUND PARIS IN A TWO-DOOR CONVERTIBLE. VERY RARE AND SOUGHT-AFTER MODEL. THANK YOU FOR THIS GREAT VIDEO

[@wouterswanepoel5753]

My grandfather owned one back in the late 50s here in South Africa. I saw it once when I was about 5 years old and it somehow made such an impression on me that I think, to this day, that it is the most beautiful car ever produced. I found this video when searching for videos about the car. Great video Jay! Thank you.

[@robertphillips6296]

I was pleasantly surprised by you posting this today, what a nice way to start the week. Stay safe and thank you.

[@DarthYuuki]

Jay: Wanna take a ride? Me: NODS FURIOUSLY

[@WreckerS26]

Certainly one of the most beautiful cars ever built.

[@MarkSmith-io3qd]

Cool car Jay. A friend of mine in the Citroën Car Club U.K. has the Traction Roadster version. I myself have a 1989 Citroën BX Gti 16 Valve hot hatch and a 2000 Citroën XM, which is one of the last XM’s to be built. Vive la France 🇫🇷.

[@Jerbod2]

YES, finally a Traction Avant. Been waiting on this for a long time.

[@facenoise465]

Is the one in the video a 11CV?

[@icsasziii]

I could not stop reading this in Manny Calavera voice and accent

[@janeberthet962]

@@facenoise465 Since it has a 6-inline I think it is the 15 CV. I remember my grandpa had an 11 with the 4 cylinders. CV stands for Chevaux (Horses). It doesn't refer to the engine horsepower, but an arbitrary tax rating invented by the french bureaucracy. French car constructors were avoiding developing cars with large engine displacement to avoid the large tax penalty levied after a certain number of "Chevaux Fiscaux" (Tax horsepower). This is one of the reasons french cars were never very successful in countries like the US because they were underpowered.

[@facenoise465]

@@janeberthet962 Interesting. I found out the Luftwaffe during the war used the 11CV as a staff car. But surely, that extra power from the inline-6 is much better like in this video.

[@janeberthet962]

@@facenoise465 While Luftwaffe units may have used the 11CV in occupied France, I wonder how much they paid for such a use? :-)

[@shidandevries]

Seriously, of all the beautiful cars Jay Leno has, this gorgeous Citroën Traction Avante is my favourite!

[@TheChzoronzon]

the grille... I think I came a bit

[@yves-noel-mariegonnet1043]

Souvenir! Souvenir! 1960 - 1970: notre "bonne vieille" "Traction Avant Citroën familiale! Que de souvenirs! Une voiture robuste qui braquait très mal, d'où plusieurs aventures mémorables. "Mais on l'aimait bien quand même!" Elle faisait partie de la famille et cela a été bien triste de s'en séparer! Nous l'avons donné à un couvent de bonnes sœurs! Merci pour votre reportage, et sincères encouragements pour une année 2021 , avec encore plus de découvertes! Merci!

[@richardlegault5644]

"Traction avant" you pronounced it perfectly, Jay

[@joelawrence56]

not 100% correct with Citroen tho..haha

[@totophi]

Are you sure? I was about to type “trac-see-ohn” instead of “trac-shee-ohn”...

[@porkimond]

I had this car as a Matchbox when I was a kid, I loved it, loved the shape Im glad you showed it

[@KevAlberta]

Pretty cool

[@MimicoBungalow]

Jay! I look forward to every review - but this time, you hit the spot! Always loved Traction Avant vehicles...and always wanted one...not easy to find a clean one up here in Toronto...One comment about your excellent reviews...just before you go on the drive, let us hear you START the car...I always love to hear the motors start. (just me, maybe!) cheers, James

[@franlooving4203]

At 17 my grandmother gave me her Peugot because I was such a slow driver and she appreciated that, LOL. It had an econoscope with a red, yellow or green light that showed/was lit when you accelerated and boy howdy did it teach me to be easy on the foot. I always wanted to be on green so that I wasn't wasting gas. I am old as dirt now and I still drive like that, keeping in mind not to take off too fast! I enjoyed hearing you speak of the French thinking about the expensive gasoline. You have me sold on this car. THANK YOU for this info and tour!!!

[@briantayler1230]

Jay is right when he says that you must drive a French car sometime. I loved my old 2002 Citroen C5. Back then my teenage son borrowed it and an older man told him he was too young to be driving a Citroen.

[@HenriBourjade]

In France old Citroën are sayd cars for old people. Because old people like comfort while young like speed.

[@russcattell955i]

When I moved to a French village some 17 years ago, there were still a few "old boys" who were in the resistance, the traction avant was the vehicle of choice and sten guns the weapon of choice for hit n run raids on the nazi's. Three lads with sten's would make a mess of a patrol. The driver could easily out run all German staff cars except the Mercedes on a Roman road, but the Citroen was unbeatable on winding country roads. Sadly they are all dead n gone, only some of the memories live on through later generations.

[@andyharman3022]

Now that you mention it, there is a Traction Avant in the movie The Great Escape, from which members of the resistance ambush some Germans at a sidewalk cafe where James Coburn is sitting.

[@russcattell955i]

@@andyharman3022 Crikey, yes, I'd forgotten that bit.

[@deansheley2489]

Great story. Thank you. 😉👍🇺🇸 My Grandfather helped liberate France.❤❤❤❤❤

[@raspucin70]

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think *that * was the reason why they couldnt have the side-steps - the resistance guys used them to jump aboard after a stint (car didnt have to stop, just to slow down). After nazi's caught with that, they banned the side-steps

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

@@raspucin70 This car was designed and brought to market before the Germans invaded France.

I'm French, 43. I've been living in Montréal for 18 years. In France, I used to drive my mother's Citroën BX in the 90s, but I would LOVE to drive a Traction Avant.

[@robertoconnor9427]

ZAPP / BAMM it's 1966 & I'm back in VIET NAM!!!!!! Thanks for the trip back in time. as you know, The French left a lot of the large & small Citroen cars when they were there. Most of the Saigon higher ups drove the type that you drove today. I thought they were great looking cars back then and still think so, in 2021.

[@zwxq3]

Exactly what I needed to end the Sunday evening in a perfect way.. An interesting Citroen. Thank you Jay

[@zephyr332]

You could always pray. Naahh just kidding, praying won't do nothing for you.

[@gustavopedrosa81]

This car was so low for the time that its was called (in Portugal) "the crawler" - arrastadeira (is the same name that its used for bedpan)

[@citronr1]

The 15-6 was not slow. The 11 was ... and still is.

[@julosx]

@@citronr1 He was talking about the car being low, not slow.

[@citronr1]

​@@julosx Usually people talking about this car being slow are actually talking about the four cylinder TA 11. My 15-6 was never slow. It was, I would say, just right. It grips the road like nothing else of that era. Truly amazing road holding due, no doubt, to its combination of precise rack and pinion steering, front wheel drive, low center of gravity, torsion bar independent suspension and original Michelin X radial tires, a Michelin invention, from 1948 onward. The tire choice was the completely understandable because Michelin owned Citroen from 1934 onward until Citroen was absorbed by PSA. Michelin original X pattern was and still is being used on our1965 ID and the 2CVs which came out in 1949.

[@bob_leponge2277]

My grandfather had a pharmacy in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, rue du commerce, not far from the Citroën offices. A few of his patients were Citroën engineers so he used to get chatting to these guys. They had developed V8 tractions (called traction 22 cv) which was their own design of engine. Sadly all prototypes were destroyed, 8 were made i believe. When Citroën went bankrupt, they had actually developed a very clever helicopter where exhaust gases were used to spin the main rotor, which meant it didn't need a tail rotor. Citroën engineers were really there most innovative in the business, sadly they never made enough money to afford to market a lot of their innovations. When they were developing the SM, at the time, they would chase 911's on the motorways, would probably march their speeds on the motorways but the SM would not need to show down in the long bends where the 911's couldn't keep up. Finally, the tax at the time was prohibitive on a capacity of 3 litres and above, and fiscal power up to 15cv. Hence the capacity of 2.9 litres and the traction 6cyl being 15cv. I can understand you prefer the 6cylinder in the US, but in France the traction is a big car with a long wheelbase. The preferred version of the 11BL (the 11 légère) which had the 4 cylinder and the smaller body. If you get a chance you should check out the traction Commerciale or Familiale which are gigantic, have load of space in the back. It's worth mentioning that not only is the traction very comfortable, it also has very impressive grip and handling. Thanks for your great videos, if nice to hear someone say something nice about french engineering for a change!

[@alvaroduarte7673]

Sir, thanks... This car was the dream of my father... You made my life happier today. Keep up the good work!!!!!!!

[@angelosantamaria2859]

Jay just loves classic Citroën cars - And I love it! I can’t wait for him to present us his SM and that 2CV we can see in the back!

[@servicarrider]

Had I achieved the same level of fame and fortune in my life that Jay has in his, and I was granted one wish, I would wish for Jay's humility.

[@vintagestuffguy1998]

12:21 2CV spotted in background! Looking forward to seeing a video of that some day

[@SinanderBoss]

The video is here! :)

[@citronr1]

Loved this. Everything you said about the TA15-6 is ABSOLUTELY CORRECT. Great car. 30's look but completely usable today. Bought my 49 15-6 in 1975 in Paris and imported it to the US (Florida). The designer of the TA (and the DS/ID and the 2CV) was a sculptor, Flaminio Bertoni (Italian heritage but born in France ... NOT Giovanni Bertone). He sculpted each Citroen he designed in clay. If I had the space this is on one of the many cars I've owned over the years that I would never had let go of. Actually every Citroen is so unique/unusual. I still drive and own a 1965 Citroen ID19, a 70s 2CV sedan with 1950 body, Citroen 2CV AK400 Fourgonette and Citroen Mehari plus other non-Citroens. Like you, if I may humbly compare myself to you, the most esoteric famous collector that I know of , I very much appreciate the wide variety of different cars that have come from the minds and hearts of very interesting men over the last century, men like Andre Citroen (a distant cousin if mine who actually died of stomach cancer, on the July 3, 1935 ... after going bankrupt from both gambling at Deauville and spending far too much creating the Traction Avant. His good friends, the Michelin Brothers bailed him out of debt by buying him out in 1934. He was an amazing man who created a lot of things revolutionary to the industry ... the first nationwide and international dealer network, the first nationwide and international parts network, the first full service family health clinics for his workers and their families located in his factory in Paris ... and much more. Quite a forward open-minded thinker socially, very different in that way than Henry Ford, who admired Citroen so much that he invited Andre and his wife to visit him and stay with him at his home Fairlane in Dearborn, Michigan, only to find out after Citroen had left that Andre Citroen was Jewish. That caused old Henry, an avowed anti-Semite to fly into a rage and fire the first Ford executive that told him that fact, then another and then another ... until know one ever mentioned it again. He refused to believe that a Jew could be an engineering genius which Citroen clearly was. He had graduated first in his class at the Ecole Polytechnique, the MIT of France. If you're interested I can email you an article or two in English about cousin Andre Citroen, the man and his family. Met his daughter Jacqueline on my first trip to Paris in 1969. I also adore and have a passion for other interesting and often rare versions of car makers like the Porsches (mostly 356s including a 63 Carrera 2, Lancias: Appia, Fulvia Coupe and Aurelia 24S Spider, Ferrari 275 GTB , Alpine A110S, Alfa Romeo Giulia spiders, Marcos 3 Liter V6 wood chassis, Lotus Super 7s, old Jaguars, early post war Bentleys, Triumphs and yes, even a couple of 3 cylinder 2 stroke SAABS. Watching your shows from our home here in Italy especially right now during the pandemic is like a wonderful walk down memory lane for me. Really enjoy your spot-on observations about always finding THE guy in "the club" for every unusual car BEFORE you buy the car. Essential self-defense. Acknowledging the effect on any car of where the car is created as well as who created it is equally important. Citroen SA was created in in Paris by a man fascinated by Jules Verne as a boy. Andre Citroen was born in 1878. Peugeot was created and built in a small machinist manufacturing town where they made pepper grinders. It was in France, yes, but practically at the Swiss border. Very sturdy and well-built those 50s, 60s and 70s Peugeots very little sign or hint of science fiction or fantasy in their cars. There were a couple of exceptions like the first hardtop convertible but that was about it. Learning these things about the men that created and manufactured these cars but also meeting and get to know some the people that have a passion today for owning and driving them enriches the whole experience. Sorry for prattling on for so long. Could not help myself. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, JAY.

[@nikkipedro]

Getting closer, Jay. It is a Citroen but the SM deserves a look, don't you think?

[@gdwlaw5549]

Incredible to think that the Citroen DS replaced the Traction Avant .

[@julosx]

The DS was awaited like the Messiah in the 50s and Citroën aficionados weren't disappointed, let me tell you.

[@lucherve6169]

@@julosx history repeating with the CX.

[@gertvanderhorst2890]

and using its engine for lack of better

[@fredericlegall690]

quand la DS est sortie les mécaniciens ont hallucinés ;ils étaient incapables de la réparer. Trop de technologie pour l'époque(la sm encore pire les pauvre).

[@sundar999]

The DS put all other car manufaturers to shame in 1955

[@kevincarlson4562]

I never liked late night talk shows.But now,I love the guy.He's so generous in displaying his entire "stable.Anyone who appreciates Citroens is OK with me.

[@TheDanAge]

I just imagined being an LA citizen and driving down the road pulling up to a stop light and crazy old Jay Leno is sitting there talking to his invisible friend about his car.

[@Lithonion1]

Yes, finally. I think I have spammed for this car. My father owned 3 of these. I remember the fuel pump having a clear glass top so you could see when the fuel is filled in the pump. My father's first one was a convertible. He purchased it off a French farm. The owner wanted what equaled 100 US dollars. When my father went to pick it up, the price went to 250 when he started speaking English. lol Also remember the manual knob for the wiper in case the motor burnt out you could manually turn the driver side window wiper.

[@truthseeker8483]

funny story! :-D

[@lh-tv280]

Finally early to a Jay Leno video! I really enjoy this show.

[@user-sf7vl2mx1d]

I love pandemic editions. This noir style, there is something mysterious and very emotional in these videos. Thank you Jay for doing such wonderful job, this is work of art.

[@MrMaxman93]

I like how he's just enjoying the drive and riffing on whatever comes to his mind about the car.

[@craigm2484]

I'm loving that grille so very nice..

[@kathyflorcruz552]

WOW!! That profile shot of that car is as fantastic as Jay's!!! Seriously this is a stunning car. And yes - gangsta IMMEDIATELY is what it projects.

[@acptelford1307]

Had to drive ours with 5 pistons back from a holiday in Cornwall years ago. Great handling car.

[@markaustin4370]

You are leaving a huge legacy to automotive history

[@GeekAndSon]

I feel like I just spent the afternoon with you. That was cool!