CITROEN CXTiming chain or Belt?

The Citroën CX is an executive car in the E segment manufactured by the French firm Citroën. Conceived as an executive sedan, one of the most notable features of this vehicle is its aerodynamic drag coefficient. With a Cd of just 0.35, the Citroën CX became a milestone of its time, making it more efficient and performing better on the asphalt.

The Citroën CX succeeded the Citroën ID and Citroën DS models and was replaced by the Citroën XM. It was produced between 1974 and 1991, with a total production of just over one million units. Today, this sedan is already considered a classic. The model had one generation and two phases.

The original model (Series 1) was introduced in 1974 as a large sedan that inherited Citroën's pioneering technology, albeit with a front-wheel-drive platform. This generation maintained the hydropneumatic suspension of its predecessor, the Citroën DS. The vehicle's design was the work of Robert Opron, inspired by previous models of the French brand and some Pininfarina prototypes. Regarding the interior, it stood out for its ergonomics and non-conformist design.

As for the engines, Citroën's idea was to equip them with rotary engines. However, they discarded the idea because they were unreliable and consumed a lot of fuel. Instead, they opted for a highly varied series of gasoline and diesel engines between 2.0 and 2.5 liters with and without a turbocharger.

In 1985, the French presented the Series 2 of the CX, which came with some aesthetic changes such as new bumpers, faired side mirrors, and a thorough revision of the dashboard. This version also introduced new engine options.

The CX was not only a milestone in terms of design and technology, but it also had a significant impact on the market. It won the European Car of the Year contest in 1975 and was praised for its modern aesthetics, excellent visibility, interior space, and of course, its legendary comfort thanks to the hydropneumatic suspension.

In the market, the Citroën CX had to face fierce competition. Models like the Ford Granada, Fiat Croma, and Lancia Gamma were popular choices in the same category. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with its reputation for luxury and durability, was also a rival to be reckoned with. Within its own automotive group, the lion brand also wanted to beat the Germans at their own game with two bets in the E segment: the Peugeot 604 and the Peugeot 505.