A British enthusiast is now enjoying a rare Citroën CX Turbo 2 Prestige, a vehicle with an unexpectedly circuitous history involving a French owner and a reverse export. The car’s journey highlights the enduring appeal of classic French automobiles, particularly among collectors who appreciate their unique character.
The Unusual Acquisition
Richard Head, a London-based owner, recently acquired the 1986 CX Turbo 2 Prestige after an unusual chain of events. The car was originally purchased in the UK by a French collector two decades ago, who then drove it back to France. Last year, the same vehicle was sold back to a British buyer. This situation underscores the global demand for niche vehicles, where owners may cross borders to find the exact model they desire.
The Allure of French Quirks
Head explains his preference for French cars: “I like their quirkiness, which I’m pleased to see Citroën and Renault appear to be rediscovering.” His automotive history includes a Citroën BX as a company car in 1990 and a Renault 5 Turbo, demonstrating a long-standing appreciation for these brands. He initially considered a Citroën SM but opted for the CX Turbo 2 Prestige as a more practical daily driver.
Finding the Right Car
The CX Turbo 2 Prestige is exceptionally rare; only five were originally registered in the UK. Head located his car through a classified ad in a monthly car magazine. The French seller had reportedly spent £30,000 restoring the vehicle over ten years before auctioning it off. Head secured the car for £12,500, a bargain compared to the initial asking price and competitive with other well-maintained Turbo 2 models.
Why This Matters
The story illustrates the lengths to which enthusiasts will go to acquire specific vehicles, even if it means reversing traditional import/export patterns. The CX Turbo 2 Prestige, with its scarcity and unique appeal, represents a growing trend in classic car collecting, where condition and rarity trump geographical origin.
The car’s journey is a testament to its enduring quality and the passion that keeps these machines on the road. The willingness of a French buyer to source a right-hand-drive model from the UK, then resell it back, shows how global the classic car market has become.
