Auction Car of the Week: 1993 Citroen BX 17 D Turbo

Citroen has a long and illustrious history of creating memorable family cars, and few were as important for the French marque as the Bertone-designed BX – a car often credited with saving the company.

Launched in 1982 and arriving in the UK the following year, the BX looked far more radical than contemporary rivals such as the Ford Sierra and Vauxhall Cavalier. A wide range of models and regular revisions meant sales stayed strong well into the 1990s.

In total, more than 2.5 million examples of the BX found homes worldwide, making this one of the best-selling Citroens of all time. During an 11-year run in the UK, the diesel versions were among the most popular. 

The BX factor

This BX 17 D Turbo is one of the finest survivors, having been garaged for its entire life. The late Venetian Red example is powered by the robust 90hp 1,769cc XUD7TE turbodiesel engine, linked to a five-speed manual transmission.

Remarkably, it stayed in the care of the same owner from new until 2020. During that 27-year period, this modern classic enjoyed a cosseted life, leading to its impressive condition today. A genuine 108,496 miles equates to an average of just 4,000 miles per year. 

The remarkably clean exterior boasts straight panels that are free from damage and corrosion. Indeed, the only signs of use are light markings or minor chips commensurate with age. Excellent trim, crystal-clear headlamps and 14-inch steel wheels fitted with almost unmarked original wheel trims complete the picture.

Let’s do the Timewarp

The factory-fresh theme continues on the inside, where the BX’s angular dashboard and period instruments face pristine velour upholstery. The original dealer-fit radio-cassette is ready to play a copy of ‘NOW 1993’ – included with the sale.

The car is mechanically up-to-scratch (including its hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension) and comes accompanied by a comprehensive history file. A full service was conducted in January 2023 and the MOT is valid until May 2024. Adding further piece of mind, a large box of spare parts is included with the sale.

‘Timewarp’ might be an overused term, but this Citroen certainly stands out from the crowd in terms of its originality and condition. It must surely be one of the best examples of a turbodiesel BX in the UK. 

Car & Classic’s auction for the 1993 Citroen BX 17 D Turbo, in association with Retro Motor, is live now and runs until 14 November 2023.

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