Description
Overview
The Tamiya Citroën DS is an elegant 1/10 scale RC assembly kit that recreates one of the most revolutionary and iconic automobiles of the 20th century. This limited-edition version features a factory pre-painted blue polycarbonate body with smoke-tinted windows, pre-cut wheel arches, and pre-made body mount holes for simplified assembly. The Citroën DS made its debut in 1955 and captivated the world with its innovative hydropneumatic suspension, aerodynamic design, and futuristic styling that remained ahead of its time for decades.
Over 1,450,000 Citroën DS models were sold through 1975, and the car served as the official vehicle for the President of France, including Charles de Gaulle. The DS also achieved the overall championship in the 1966 global rallies, proving its performance capabilities matched its revolutionary design. Tamiya's recreation honors this automotive icon with the early-period model featuring the distinctive dual rounded headlights, paired with the versatile MB-01 chassis configured for front-wheel-drive operation.
Key Features
- 1/10 scale electric 2WD on-road RC assembly kit
- Limited edition with factory pre-painted PS-4 Blue body
- PS-31 Smoke tinted windows
- Pre-cut wheel arches and body mount holes
- Classic early-period DS styling with dual headlights
- MB-01 chassis in long wheelbase FF configuration
- Front-motor, front-wheel-drive layout
- Authentic wider front tread than rear (like original)
- 4-wheel fully independent double wishbone suspension
- Symmetrical suspension structure
- Friction dampers
- 60mm front and rear tires
- 540 brushed motor included
- Hobbywing THW-1060 ESC included
Historical Significance
The Citroën DS was ranked third in the "Car of the Century" poll, recognizing its groundbreaking engineering and design. Its hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, disc brakes, power steering, and semi-automatic transmission were decades ahead of competitors. The distinctive aerodynamic body, penned by Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni, created a silhouette that remains instantly recognizable and influential today.
Chassis Features
- Compact 2WD MB-01 platform
- 239mm long wheelbase configuration
- Front-motor, front-wheel-drive (FF) setup
- Three wheelbase options available (209/224/239mm)
- Switchable between FWD and RWD
- Gear type differential
- Unitized motor mount and final gears
- Easy assembly and maintenance design
Performance Benefits
- Front-wheel-drive provides authentic DS handling
- Long wheelbase delivers stable cruising
- Symmetrical suspension ensures balanced cornering
- Wider front tread matches original DS proportions
- Low center of gravity for stability
- Smooth gear differential operation
Usage Notes
- Designed for smooth paved surfaces and on-road use
- Ideal for scale cruising and vintage car enthusiasts
- Suitable for beginner to intermediate builders
- Pre-painted body requires only decal application and trimming
- Friction dampers can be upgraded to oil-filled units
- Plastic bushings can be upgraded to ball bearings
Technical Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scale | 1/10 |
| Length | 419mm (16.5") |
| Width | 198mm (7.8") |
| Height | 137mm (5.4") |
| Wheelbase | 239mm (Long) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD Front-Wheel Drive |
| Motor Position | Front-Mounted |
| Chassis | MB-01 |
| Motor | 540 Brushed Type (included) |
| ESC | Hobbywing THW-1060 (included) |
| Suspension | 4-Wheel Independent Double Wishbone |
| Dampers | Friction Type |
| Differential | Gear Type |
| Tire Diameter | 60mm |
| Body | Pre-Painted Blue Polycarbonate |
What's Included
- Tamiya Citroën DS MB-01 assembly kit
- Pre-painted PS-4 Blue polycarbonate body
- Smoke-tinted windows (PS-31)
- Pre-cut wheel arches and body mount holes
- 540 brushed motor
- Hobbywing THW-1060 electronic speed controller
- Wheels and 60mm tires
- Decal sheet
- Illustrated instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio system (transmitter and receiver)
- Steering servo
- 7.2-7.4V battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
- AA batteries for transmitter
Summary
The Tamiya Citroën DS Limited Edition with pre-painted blue body celebrates one of automotive history's most influential and beautiful designs. The factory-finished body eliminates painting while delivering a stunning result, and the MB-01 chassis configured for front-wheel-drive honors the original DS's layout. Whether displayed as a collector's piece or driven on smooth surfaces, this kit captures the elegance and innovation that made the Citroën DS a true automotive icon.