40 Years of the Citroën 2CV Cocorico: The most French of all “Ducks” celebrates its anniversary. Four decades after its market launch, Citroën and AC Automobile Switzerland are commemorating this special edition in a press release. It was created in 1986 in the run-up to the World Cup and bore the French national colors. This made it one of the most distinctive variants in the series. And to this day, it embodies the brand’s creative spirit.
Special Edition for the 1986 World Cup
The idea for the 2CV Cocorico was conceived in 1986, ahead of the World Cup in Mexico. At the time, France was among the leading soccer nations. Citroën capitalized on this enthusiasm and designed a fitting special edition. Serge Gevin created the design. The team reached the semifinals but was eliminated there on June 25, 1986, by West Germany.
Nevertheless, the design was a hit, and Citroën launched the model in early October 1986. In doing so, the brand removed the obvious soccer references. Instead, it focused on the national colors and French identity.
Tricolor Design Makes the “Duck” Unmistakable
Visually, the 2CV Cocorico remained unique. The base was a Blanc Meije body. Over it ran a large-scale color gradient in blue, white, and red. The rear fenders shone in Rouge Vallelunga. Additionally, the air deflectors on the hood were painted in Bleu Cocorico.
Additional details enhanced its appearance. These included a white fabric roof, stainless steel hubcaps from the Dyane 6, and red lettering. Inside, Citroën opted for seat covers in Tep Jean Bleu Sodalite. Thus, an everyday car was transformed into a true design object.
A rare collector’s item with a two-cylinder boxer engine
Technically, the Cocorico was based on the 2CV 6 Spécial. Under the hood was an air-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine. It had a displacement of 602 cm³ and produced 29 DIN-PS. The curb weight was under 600 kilograms. As a result, the suspension remained characteristically soft.
Citroën limited the production run to 1,000 units and sold them only in France. Until March 1987, the Cocorico cost 36,100 French francs, including VAT. Sales were slow at first. But it was precisely the small production run that later made the model highly sought after. Today, the 2CV Cocorico is considered a coveted collector’s item.
An Electric Future for the Citroën Icon
With this anniversary, Citroën is building a bridge to the future. The brand is preparing for the return of the 2CV. The classic is set to return as a fully electric model. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of Europe’s most famous icons. Thus, the anniversary combines a look back with a look ahead.
What is the Citroën 2CV Cocorico?
The 2CV Cocorico is a special edition of the Citroën “Duck” from 1986. It features the French national colors and is considered particularly sought-after.
Why is the 2CV called “Cocorico”?
In France, “Cocorico” refers to the crowing of a rooster and national pride. Citroën developed the model in the run-up to the 1986 World Cup.
How many were built?
Citroën limited the 2CV Cocorico to 1,000 units. The brand sold it exclusively in France.
How much did the 2CV Cocorico cost back then?
Until March 1987, the Cocorico cost 36,100 French francs, including VAT. Sales were initially rather slow.
What kind of engine did the 2CV Cocorico have?
It was powered by an air-cooled, two-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 602 cm³. The engine produced 29 DIN-PS, and the car weighed less than 600 kilograms.
Who designed the 2CV Cocorico?
Designer Serge Gevin created the special edition. Citroën deliberately avoided obvious soccer references.
Is the Citroën 2CV making a comeback?
Yes, Citroën is preparing the return of the 2CV. The classic is coming back as a fully electric model.
