Citroën GS. 1970–80 (prod. 1,896,742; 847 Birotor sold). 4-door saloon, 3- and 5-door estate. F/F, 995 cm³ (2 × 478 cm³ Wankel), 1015, 1129, 1222, 1299 cm³ (4 cyl. OHC). Smart fastback, arguably inspired by a Pininfarina design of the 1960s, and styled by Robert Opron. European Car of the Year in launch year. Aerodynamic, though underpowered; ride considered very good, helped by hydropneumatic system. Quality problems did not help. Break from 1972. Very rare rotary-engined model, Birotor, in 1973, killed by the oil crisis; Citroën bought back these cars and had them scrapped, though a handful survived. Pallas and “warm” GS X and GS X2 from 1974. GS X3, with 1·3-litre engine, from 1978.

Manufacturing locations: Rennes, France; Belgium

Marque: Citroën | Successor: Citroën GSA