The Citroën 2CV is arguably one of the most recognisable French vehicles produced and is regarded by many as the car that mobilised France in the post-war era. Its quirky styling, advanced suspension and consumer-friendly price point quickly cemented the 2CV’s standing as “the people’s car.” Produced in several markets and in a variety of models from 1948 to 1990, over 3.8 million 2CVs were sold.

One of the rarer 2CV variants is the twin-engined 4x4 “Sahara,” with just 694 produced. To call the Sahara four-wheel-drive is selling it short—both engines can be operated independently or together, allowing the vehicle to be front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive. It benefitted from near-perfect weight distribution, and with its two engines, it had a top speed of 100 km/h. Highly adaptable to any terrain, Saharas have been known to tackle every off-road adventure—even the Dakar Rally.

This example is believed to have been assembled at Citroën’s factory in Mangualde, Portugal, in late 1964. It was first registered on 7 January 1965 by Automóveis Citroën and sold to its first owner, José Mestre Lampreia on 6 July 1965. On 12 April 1967 it was acquired by the French construction conglomerate Sainrapt et Brice. On 2 May 1973 Fernando dos Santos Martins registered this Sahara in his name; he would remain the owner for nearly three decades. This Citroën would change hands several times, before being offered for sale at auction in 2018, and purchased by the current owner who imported the car into Germany. The current owner had this Sahara certified as an “Old Timer” on 19 December 2019 and invoices on file total over €1.400.

Today the car is finished in a delightful two-tone blue, complimented by a navy blue interior. This Sahara retains its correct AW-type engines and is accompanied by restoration photographs, and Portuguese homologation, licence plate and ownership history certificates.