Segment:
Compact family car, innovative design
Key Competitors:
Simca 1100, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Volkswagen Golf
Design Innovation:
Aerodynamic styling, unique hydropneumatic suspension, spacious interior for its size
Intended Users:
Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY mechanics
Engine:
All engine types and variants (e.g., 1015cc, 1222cc, 1299cc air-cooled flat-twin/flat-four)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic gearboxes
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic suspension (front and rear), height adjustment, fluid maintenance, seals
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brakes (front and rear), parking brake, fluid specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, instruments, accessories
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, structural components, interior trim, glass replacement
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid level checks, lubrication points
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, piston/ring replacement, valve adjustments, cylinder head service, cooling system maintenance
Transmission Service:
Gearbox rebuild, clutch replacement, automatic transmission service
Suspension And Steering:
Hydropneumatic system servicing, component replacement, steering rack repair, alignment procedures
Brake System Overhaul:
Caliper rebuild, brake pad/shoe replacement, master cylinder service, bleeding procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds, including diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled flat-twin (early GS) transitioning to air-cooled flat-four (later GS and GSA)
Displacements:
1015cc, 1222cc, 1299cc
Horsepower Range:
50 hp to 72 hp (depending on engine and tune)
Torque Range:
70 Nm to 95 Nm (depending on engine)
Carburetion:
Single or twin Solex/Weber carburetors (depending on model and engine)
Ignition:
Contact breaker points or electronic ignition (later models)
Type:
3-speed Automatic (Citroën's own design)
Clutch:
Single dry plate diaphragm clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (likely GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (typical for the era)
Crash Test Performance:
Limited formal testing by modern standards; expected to be typical for its era.
Braking System:
Power-assisted disc brakes (front and rear) with 'anti-dive' geometry
Seatbelts:
Provision for seatbelts, front lap/diagonal likely standard, rear lap belts
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage structure
Radio:
Optional factory or dealer-fitted radio (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig), usually AM/FM.
Dashboard Design:
Unique single-spoke steering wheel and futuristic dashboard (especially on GSA with push-button controls).
Steering:
Power steering (optional on some models, standard on higher trims/GSA)
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, fog lights (optional).
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Suspension Fluid Check:
Regular checks and topping up of hydropneumatic fluid are crucial, especially at major services.
Ignition System Tune Up:
Spark plug replacement and ignition timing adjustment recommended every 20,000 - 30,000 km.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual; likely SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, API SF or equivalent for the era. Special air-cooled oil formulations might be recommended.
Coolant:
Not applicable (air-cooled engine)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Citroën's own hydraulic mineral oil) - often referred to as LHS 2 (later formulation) or similar.
Rust:
Common on sills, wheel arches, and floor pans due to age and road salt.
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking seals, failing spheres/accumulators, and pump issues can affect ride height and comfort.
Engine Cooling:
Overheating can occur in heavy traffic or hot climates due to the air-cooled design's limitations.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring degradation and corrosion can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën is renowned for its engineering innovation, particularly in suspension (2CV, DS) and vehicle design.
Gs Introduction:
Launched in 1970 as a successor to the Ami 8, featuring advanced technology and styling.
Gsa Introduction:
Facelifted version introduced in 1979 (GSA) with revised styling, dashboard, and improved aerodynamics.
Production Period:
1970-1986 (GS/GSA)
Manufacturing Locations:
France (primarily Rennes-sur-Ille)