Citroën Type C
The 'Little Lemon' that brought mass-market motoring to France.
- Power
- 11 bhp
- Top speed
- 37 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$25k
About the Citroën Type C
The Citroën Type C, popularly known as the 5HP or 5CV, was André Citroën's second major model and a pioneer of European mass production. Designed by Edmond Moyet, it was intended to be affordable and easy to operate, famously marketed as the first car specifically for 'lady drivers' due to its standard electric starter and lighting. The 1924 model year saw the introduction of the long-wheelbase C3 chassis, which allowed for the iconic 'Trèfle' (Cloverleaf) three-seater body style. Its simple 856cc engine and robust construction made it a massive commercial success, accounting for nearly half of Citroën's sales by the mid-1920s.
Citroën Type C specs
The Citroën Type C produces 11 bhp (8 kW) and 37 Nm (27 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 37 mph (60 km/h).
| Make | Citroën |
|---|---|
| Model | Type C |
| Trim | 5HP |
| Years | 1922–1926 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 83,000 built |
| Engine | 0.9-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 856 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 11 bhp (8 kW) at 2,100 rpm |
| Torque | 37 Nm (27 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 37 mph (60 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 543 kg (1,197 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 20 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Citroën Type C worth?
A typical Citroën Type C is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $25,000 (about £8,900 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Citroën Type C rarity in CarSpot
The Citroën Type C is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 36 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Citroën Type C fun facts
- The car was nicknamed 'Petit Citron' (Little Lemon) because it was initially only available in a bright grapefruit-yellow paint.
- The 'Trèfle' or Cloverleaf version featured a unique seating arrangement with two seats in front and a single central seat in the rear.
- In 1925, a used 5HP nicknamed 'Bubsy' became the first car to be driven all the way around the perimeter of Australia, covering 17,000 km.