Will's Tin Snail Site
Part 2
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2CV Buyer's Guide (Part 2)
Which A - Type?
There are a number of variations on the humble 2cv, and you may want to consider which will best suit your needs, budget or style. The main variants are outlined below (pictures will be included soon).
2cv6
The "classic" 2cv with a 602cc engine produced from the early 1970s until 1990. With decent performance, and a top speed of 72 mph, this is probably the sensible choice if the car is for everyday use. The 2cv6 is the most commonly seen, and the easiest to find, maintain and run. 1970s models are fitted with front drum brakes, and square headlights, 1980s models have front disc brakes (more powerful and easy to maintain), round headlights, and are availale in a number of styles (Special, Dolly, Charlston).
2cv4
This is the predecessor of the 2cv6, with the same "classic" bodywork, but a smaller (435cc) engine. Produced during the 1960s and 1970s, with 4 light (window) and 6 light bodywork, these are still fairly commmon in those countries in which they were originally available. Top speed is about 55 to 60 mph and spare parts are a bit more difficult to obtain than for newer cars.
Oldies
The original (1950s) 2cvs, with a "ripple" bonnet, "suicide" front doors and 375cc, or 425cc engines are particularly desirable models. These cars are spartan by the standards of modern 2cvs, with windscreen wipers powered by the speedometer cable, no fuel gauge or indicators, "hammock" seats and a top speed of about 40 mph.
Dyane
The craggy "angular" 2cv made from the 1960s until the early 1980s. With a 435cc or (more usually) 602cc engine, hatchback boot and similar performance to later 2cvs, this is another good choice for everyday use. Not as common as 2cvs, but not difficult to find or obtain spares for.
Ami
Although once common, the Ami (produced during the 1960s and 1970s) is now quite rare, The Ami has a standard 2cv chassis with uprated suspension, and a "modern" double skinned body and interior. Ami6 and Ami8 models have the 602cc 2 cylinder engine, Ami Super models have a 1015cc 4 cylinder engine. These are sought after cars, but obtaining spares can be difficult and ownership often involves a lot of attention to bodywork. If you see a decent one, go for it.
Vans
A-series vans make for truly practical motoring, and have their own following amongst 2cv enthusiasts. A wide range were made, as they have been around almost as long as the 2cv itself. The original 2cv based vans (250 and 400) were superceded in the late 1970s by the Acadiane, based on a Dyane with a lengthened chassis. Mechanical parts are usually shared with the cars and are easy to obtain, and body panels, although sometimes prone to rot, are easy to find and replace.
Mehari
Not so much a car as a "leisure vehicle". 2cv running gear and chassis with a plastic ABS "jeep" body. 4 wheel drive versions were made, but are particularly rare. Bodywork won't rust, but can get a bit brittle, however, most spares can still be obtained in Europe. Not an everyday car, but freat fun.