For Sale: 1972 Citroen DS21 Pallas in Katwijk, Netherlands

Citroen DS 21 Pallas: A timeless icon in as-new condition Citroen is renowned the world over as the marque that managed to unite innovation, daring and elegance in a single car brand. When the Citroen DS was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1955, the crowd stood there literally open-mouthed. Never before had a car looked so futuristic. The DS was affectionately nicknamed the "Goddess", not only because of its name (DS sounds like "deesse", French for goddess), but also thanks to its extraordinary engineering and almost otherworldly design. The DS ushered in revolutions such as the hydropneumatic suspension, which had the car gliding over the road like a floating carpet. For years the DS was the car of choice for presidents, artists and enthusiasts seeking a machine that was not merely functional, but a genuine work of art. Over the years, several versions appeared, of which the DS 21 Pallas is an absolute gem. The Pallas trim added an extra dimension of luxury and comfort, from richly finished interiors to subtle chrome accents. This was the DS in its most elegant guise. The DS 21 Pallas: A driving experience like a floating dream Picture this: you settle into the deep red seats of this 1972 DS 21 Pallas. The door closes with a soft thud, the scent of classic leather mingles with the promise of an unrivalled drive. With a gentle turn of the key the engine comes to life, and the moment you press the clutch you sense at once that this is no ordinary classic. The manual gearbox, a sought-after option among enthusiasts, gives you complete control, while the hydropneumatic suspension ensures you do not so much drive as float. Every bump in the road melts away like snow in the sun, and you experience the feeling of a car that was decades ahead of its time. The open Webasto roof lets the sunlight pour in, lending every journey a touch of extra magic. With improvements such as a reconditioned carburettor, electronic ignition and a new fuel tank, this classic icon feels fresh and dependable, as though it has just rolled straight out of the 1972 showroom. The exterior, finished in stylish black, radiates pure class. The deep gloss of the paintwork emphasises the iconic lines of the DS, while the red interior trim offers a beautiful contrast that exudes elegance and passion. Everything breathes luxury: from the dashboard to the seats, every detail is in absolutely as-new condition. The DS 21 Pallas is not just a car, it is an experience, a rolling work of art, a time machine that carries you back to the glory days of the French avant-garde. What is more, the maintenance history is fully documented. With a folder full of invoices worth no less than €35,000, you gain a transparent insight into the care this car has enjoyed. Every repair and improvement has been recorded, a rarity among classics of this calibre. Highlights and improvements This Citroen DS 21 Pallas is moreover fitted with various upgrades that enhance both driving pleasure and reliability: " LPG system, for more efficient and more economical motoring " New window channels and trims " Renewed B-pillar rubber mounts " Electronic ignition for optimal reliability " New fuel tank and reconditioned carburettor " New jack supports " Original Webasto open roof " Condition: As-new, a gem in black and red The Goddess does not ask for attention. She demands it. With a baguette under my arm, Nick Slinger