The Citroen 5CV Type C was presented at the Paris
Motor Show. The model was painted yellow, hence its nickname of "petite
citron". Its 856 cc engine develops 11 bhp at 2,100 rpm. The 5CV has a
fiscal rating of 5 bhp and a 3-speed gearbox. It travels at 60 km/h and
consumes 5 litres/100 km. This highly economical vehicle marks the beginning
of the "democratization" of the motor car. It is so easy to drive and look
after that it becomes the first "ladies' car". No fewer than 80,759 examples
were built between March 1922 and December 1926.
Citroen 5CVs were imported to Australia and were popular
vehicles. In Australia they were predominantly known as the 'Baby Citroen".
A mad German, Bernd, who was on holidays in Australia,
purchased Matilda as a wreck in Albany and restored it in Perth. Bernd
then sold Matilda to Lois, who expressed her interest in undertaking this
journey. Tom and Lois named the car Matilda. More
on Waltzing Matilda.
