The Citroën Dyane saw the light of day in 1967 as a direct competitor for the Renault 4. Based on the technology of the iconic 2CV, but with a more modern design and more functionality, the Dyane was developed as a budget-friendly and versatile alternative. However, the Dyane would never completely replace the Duck. A total of 1.4 million units were built up to 1983, while the van version Acadiane remained in production until 1987.
Why a new competitor for the Renault 4?
In the 1960s, sales of the 2CV began to decline due to competition from models such as the Renault 4. Citroën already had a slightly more luxurious model with the Ami 6, but that served a different market segment. Therefore, a new model was developed that:
✔ Could compete directly with the Renault 4
✔ A fifth door (large tailgate) was added for greater ease of use
✔ Remained in the lowest tax class (max. 2 fiscal horsepower)
✔ Could use parts from the 2CV and Ami 6
✔ Could be produced on the same production line as the 2CV
The Dyane is taking shape
Citroën's design department was overloaded, so development was outsourced to Panhard et Levassor. Louis Bionier made the first sketches, but Citroën found the nose too massive and the rear unsatisfactory. So Jacques Charreton took over the styling and gave the Dyane its characteristic look.
A striking detail are the hollow doors . These were not just a style element: they were necessary because wider doors did not fit on the existing production line. The headlights also had a unique design: Citroën originally wanted square ones, but that was too expensive. That is why the Dyane got round headlights with a square frame .
What does Dyane mean?
The name "Dyane" came from the archives of Panhard, which had previously used names such as Dyna, Dynavia and Dynamic . Although the name is reminiscent of the Roman goddess Diana , Citroën has always denied that this was the source of inspiration.
Technology: the Dyane vs. the 2CV
Although the Dyane looked more modern than the 2CV, it shared largely the same technology:
🔹 Chassis and suspension : Identical to the 2CV, which provided the characteristic comfortable driving behaviour.
🔹 Engines : The Dyane started with a 425 cc engine , followed by a 435 cc and finally the 602 cc version in the Dyane 6.
🔹 Brakes : From 1977 , the Dyane was fitted with disc brakes at the front, a significant improvement over the drum brakes of earlier models.
Why did the Dyane never become as popular as the 2CV?
Despite its more modern look and practical design, the Dyane never matched the legendary status of the 2CV. This was due to a number of factors:
1️⃣ Price difference : The Dyane was more expensive than the 2CV, so many buyers simply opted for the cheaper Duck.
2️⃣ The Duck was too popular : The 2CV already had a loyal fan base, so the Dyane was seen as an 'alternative' rather than a replacement.
3️⃣ The rise of newer models : By the 1980s, the Dyane was overtaken by more modern Citroën models such as the Visa .
The end of the Dyane and the rise of the Acadiane
The last Dyane rolled off the production line in 1983 , while the Acadiane van version remained in production until 1987. The Dyane disappeared, but its influence remained: the fifth door and improved interior space later found their way into other Citroën models.
The Dyane today: a beloved classic car
Although the Dyane never achieved the mythical status of the 2CV, it is today a sought-after classic . Its unique design, practicality and shared engineering with the 2CV make it a popular choice for vintage Citroën enthusiasts.
Have you ever driven a Dyane? Would you like to drive a Dyane? You can rent one at De2Pktjes . Or are you a proud owner? Share your experiences in the comments! 🚗💨