Images by John Grafman
Liberty is not the sole domain of America. The French have a rich history, enjoying similar freedoms in both politics and in expressive art. And, that includes automotive styling.
The Mullin Automotive Museum is celebrating the beauty and technological excellence of French automaker Citroën. “Citroën: The Man, The Marque, The Mystique,” is featuring cars from nearly the entire history of the company as well as an in-depth look at Andre Citroën. The exhibit will runs through the spring of 2018.
Citroën has built a reputation over the last 98 years as being a company willing to take risks and do things differently. It has managed to continually push the boundaries of technology and styling without losing its unique Gallic charm, something which is so evident in vehicles like the DS and the 2CV. Founded in 1919 by Andre Citroën, the company was responsible for building Europe’s first affordable mass-produced car, the Citroën Type A. The company also popularized the front wheel drive layout in addition to unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension with its revolutionary Traction Avant executive car.
“Citroën is a marque that has always appealed to me on some level,” said Peter Mullin, founder and CEO of the Mullin Automotive Museum. “The way in which the company set about designing its often odd but always stunning vehicles, packing them with wildly innovative technologies, is fascinating to me. I’m so pleased that we will soon be able to share these incredible vehicles with the public who may not have ever seen them in person and I hope we’re able to create a new legion of Citroën devotees.”
“Citroën: The Man, The Marque, The Mystique” represents the most comprehensive look at the history of the famed French automaker ever attempted in North America and honors one of the world’s greatest and quirkiest manufacturers. The exhibition is featuring 46 of the world’s most historic and unique Citroëns including a number of vehicles bodied by French coachbuilder Chapron, a rare twin-engined 2CV Sahara, a Traction Avant Cabriolet and an iconic HY Van. Visitors can also expect to see modern Citroëns such as the 2007 C6 and the 2009 C3 Pluriel as well as several late production model 2CVs dating from the 1980s and early 1990s, none of which were ever sold in the U.S.
While Citroën might be the headlining attraction, the Mullin houses numerous other iconic brands, from Bugatti to Delahaye, and Talbot-Lago to Voisin. And, one would be remiss to not delve into the delightful period artworks that dot the museum, ranging from furniture to sculpture.
Museum Information
The museum offers semi-private tours available on Tuesdays and Thursdays and public days on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. Tickets are encouraged to be purchased in advance through the Mullin Museum’s website. For more information on Citroën: The Man, The Marque, The Mystique please visit www.MullinAutomotiveMuseum.com or call 805.385.5400.
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