C1 (1920-1924)
page 1/2
 

Sensibly for one with no experience of automobile production, Gabriel Voisin didn't design his first car from scratch. During the closing years of the Great War, he purchased the drawings and four running prototypes developed for André Citroen by two ex-Panhard engineers, Ernest Arnault and Louis Dufresne. After further development during 1918, the model was presented for type approval early in 1919 and was unveiled to the public at the Salon de Paris in October that year.

 


This typically square-cut perpendicular closed model bears little resemblance to the aerodynamic Voisins of later years.

The C1 was destined for a demanding and wealthy clientele, as the lavishly appointed interior demonstrates. Even the chauffeur's compartment is comfortable, if a little austere. Forward visibility is excellent, though the same certainly cannot be said for the rear, the design principles of the celebrated 'Lumineuse' are conspicuous by their absence...

The C1 was powered by a sleeve-valve 4-litre four cylinder rated at 18HP, developing some 78bhp in 1920. Much to Gabriel Voisin's disapproval, the 3460 mm wheelbase chassis was often fitted a wide range of heavy formal bodies by the great coachbuilders of the period.

This post-1921 model - perhaps 1923 - is equipped with period accessories including factory-fitted front brakes, twin spares, folding rear occasional seats, a Blériot lighting set and a Telegauge.


To C1 Page 2 Back to Gallery