“This model is in no way intended to replace the 2 CV, from which it differs considerably (...)”, Citroën’s press release in 1961 was perhaps surprising at the time, as much as the shape of Ami 6! This “big little car”, with its small outer dimensions and spacious interior, went on to be a great success, beyond its unique shape, with over one million models produced, more than half of them in station wagon version, which arrived in 1964.
CITROËN #ami6, A UNIQUE LOOK WITH ITS Z-SHAPED ROOF
After designing the Traction Avant, the 2 CV and the DS with the Citroën design team, Flaminio Bertoni was asked to create the lines of a middle-range car, known as the AM Project. #ami6 was the result of this; his masterpiece, as he confided to his friends and family. Since here, for the first time, the designer could express himself fully and alone without interference from anyone else imposing the style of the car. For #ami6, he had the bold idea of the inverted rear window which remains clear when it rains, also preserving a respectably-sized trunk with traditional opening, and spaciousness in the rear seats, while retaining reduced outer dimensions. The dual-cylinder 602 cm3 engine was extrapolated from that of the 2 CV, In addition to its front end with refined lines set with wide rectangular headlights (a first at that time), its bonnet sloping in the middle, its pagoda-style roof and sides highlighted with embossed lines, #ami6 displayed a strong character, even a “baroque style” in the words of some observers! #ami6 was not content with being just an aesthetic success. It was also innovative in terms of marketing, presenting itself in advertising documents as the “second vehicle ideal for the lady of the household”.
The interior of #ami6 was inspired directly by that of the DS, a gold standard in the field. From its single-spoke steering wheel and door handles to its controls and seats, everything suggested top-of-the-range Citroën.
In terms of road behaviour, everyone applauded the road handling and flexibility of the saloon, inherited from the famous suspensions of the 2 CV. From its creation, in keeping with the Citroën spirit, #ami6 has been an original and innovative car. Its die-hard fans maintain a particular interest in the Club versions with four headlights and white side trim, sold from September 1967.
The iconic advertising slogan for #ami6 remained “the least expensive comfort mile in the world”.
AMI 6 STATION WAGON; SUCCESS HAS FIVE DOORS
The turning point came in late 1964, with the arrival of a small station wagon (320 kg payload) designed by Henri Dargent (assistant to Flaminio Bertoni) and by Robert Opron (successor to Bertoni, who passed away in 1964). This station wagon would boost sales and overtake the saloon. This has been a very rare occurrence in #automotive history.
More consensual, its line also offered considerable cargo volume for a leisure vehicle in this category, along with easy and convenient access. It was versatile and a family could take a trip in great comfort, but it was also suited to professional use for a mobile commercial operator or an artisan.
Ami 6 was the favourite car of French people in 1966.
Production of the saloon ended in March 1969, six months before production of the estate ended, to make way for the new, less unusual Ami 8 with its rear window facing the “right” way. The latter gave way to the Visa in 1978.
CITROËN #ami6, DID YOU KNOW?
Technical data sheet
Ami 6 saloon April 1961: Engine: Type M 4, Capacity: 602 cm3, Bore: 74 mm, Stroke 70 mm, Fiscal power: 3 CV, Actual power: 22 hp at 4,500 rpm Carburettor: Solex single barrel 30 PBI until November 1961 then 30 PICS. 25-litre fuel tank General dimensions and weight: Length: 3.87 m, Width: 1.524 m, Wheel base: 2.4 m, Curb weight: 640 kg.
Ami 6 station wagon October 1964: Engine: Type M 4, Capacity: 602 cm3, Bore: 74 mm, Stroke 70 mm, Fiscal power: 3 CV, Developed power: 25.5 hp at 4,750 rpm Carburettor: Solex single barrel 40 PICS and 40 PCIS (centrifugal clutch) until April 1964, then 40 PICS-2 and 40 PCIS-2 (centrifugal clutch). 25-litre fuel tank General dimensions and weight: Length: 3.958 m, Width: 1.524 m, Wheel base: 2.4 m, Curb weight: 690 kg.
Launch prices: Saloon 1961: 6,550 French francs (267 French francs for the car radio option available from January 1962). The same year, 2 CV AZLP 425 cm3 (centrifugal clutch): 4,950 French francs, ID 19 normal saloon: 9,970 French francs. 4-seater Tourisme Estate 1964: 7,140 French francs.
Main upgrades: 1962: rear sliding windows (half only). October 1964: Estate type bodywork New ogive bulb rear lights October 1967: Club finish with twin round headlights and white side trim. Enhanced finish. May 1968: Rear multi-function single-piece headlights Double sliding front windows.
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