On This Day

Saturday 2nd October 1982

37 years ago

The Citroen BX was unveiled in Paris under the Eiffel Tower. The BX was designed to replace the successful Citroën GS/A that was launched in 1970, with a larger vehicle. The midsize BX with hydropneumatic suspension set new accents in aerodynamics, chassis and economy. Inside the switch satellites were integrated into the dashboard speedometer with a magnifying glass. A body with strong geometric lines was created by Italian designer Marcello Gandini working for Bertone. Round curves were taboo. A particular innovation was the lightweight body: at the bumpers, the hood, the rear hatch and the C-pillar trim plastics were used. Moreover, at Citroën the body was the first which was designed and developed on a computer. The rear axle got equipped with trailing arms and drawn lengthwise spring elements. The clever and compact axle suspension allowed for a flat cargo area. New standards of particularly careful corrosion protection were reached using galvanized steel and zinc coating. From 1985, Citroën launched three estate versions: BX BX 16 RS Break, BX 19 TRS Break and BX 19 RD Break. Later the BX 4 TC “Evolution” was launched, the Group B version of the Citroën BX with an extended front as the new 2.15 liter turbo engine was mounted longitudinally. Initially two engines were available: an engine with 1360 cm3, and 62 (or 72) PS and one with 1580 cm3 and 90 PS. The two upper trim levels 14 E and 14 RE were offered with five-speed transmission and an output of 72 PS. In April 1984, the Citroën BX is available with a 1.9-liter diesel version with 64 DIN hp. From November, the Citroën BX GT was followed with 1891 cm3 and 105 hp, the later with the special model BX Digit with all digital instrument cluster. From 1987, the BX received a facelift: with large white turn signals and wide fenders, new bumpers and a redesigned dashboard with conventional round dials and controls. Two more special engines: in 1987, the 1.9 liter GTi 16V with 158 hp (from 147 hp in 1988) was the first mass-produced in French 16V engine with ABS as standard. In 1988, the 1.8 liter turbo diesel with 90 PS followed. The French advertising campaign used the slogan "J'aime, j'aime, j'aime" showing the car accompanied by music written specially by Julien Clerc. The British advertising campaign used the slogan "Loves Driving, Hates Garages", reflecting the effort of Citroën to promote the reduced maintenance costs of the BX, over the higher than average maintenance costs of the technologically advanced GS/GSA; while still performing in the Citroën style on the road.