BMW-Swapped 2CV Van is France’s Hottest Baguette Bringer

This gloriously patinated 1969 Citroën 2CV Fourgonette is hiding a speedy secret. Under the corrugated hood sits a BMW motorcycle engine that guarantees on-time deliveries, with three times the power output of the original motor.

Replacing the diminutive 602 cc 29-hp air-cooled flat twin is a 1.1-liter Boxer engine from a BMW R1100RT that offers 90 horses, technically making this van a quatre-vingt-dix chevaux.

The Fourgonette may still look like a well-used workhorse but U.K-based 2CV specialist and racer Rick Pembro undertook a total rebuild in order for it to cope with the power hike. A new chassis from Ken Hanna underpins the car, modified to accept the BMW block, the suspension was rebuilt with new shock absorbers, new bearings, bushes, and springs for the side canisters. The steering rack and gearbox were refurbished and racing-spec pads fitted to the brakes. Other neat touches include using a Stella Artois beer can as an oil catch tank, plus custom headers and a stainless steel exhaust.

Meanwhile, the body was sent off to Citwins to have new galvanized steel panels fitted to the front floors, lower and upper bulkheads, lower screen, sills and rear end. These were then painted and aged to match the original bodywork in its pale blue Électricité de France hue. A layer of clear coat was also added to preserve its appearance, while new wheels and tires were also aged appropriately.

Inside Pembro fitted more rigid seats with three-point seatbelts and added a rev counter and oil temperature gauge. The rusty steering wheel was simply lacqured to fit with the overall look.

With its enhanced handling and claimed 100 mph top speed this terrific Tin Snail certainly won’t hold up the traffic. It just achieved a swift sale on Collecting Cars for just £10,500 ($13,000) and its new owner is all set to enjoy the daily dash to the local boulangerie.

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