The 2003 C2 Citroën Sport concept showcased Citroën's strong commitment to motorsports through a futuristic and high-performance design. Unveiled at the 73rd Geneva Motor Show, the C2 Citroën Sport represented a collaboration between Citroën's concept car department and Citroën Sport, aiming to express a dynamic vision of motorsports.
Externally, the C2 Citroën Sport exhibited a striking and aggressive design, embodying intense driving sensations and high-quality construction. Its proportions, including a wide wheelbase and tracks, conveyed a sense of stability and density suitable for racing. Noteworthy exterior features included wide air intakes, a rounded bonnet, and sharply designed lines that emphasized speed and agility. The generously sized wheel arches contributed to the car's powerful and energetic appearance, reflecting its performance-oriented focus.
Under the hood, the C2 Citroën Sport was equipped with a 1,587 cc engine derived from the TU5JP4 production engine. This engine delivered an impressive 225 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 20.5 mkg of torque at 7,000 rpm, showcasing a specific output of 141 horsepower per liter. The valvegear featured two overhead camshafts driven by a toothed belt and a mechanical tappet with an adapted cam profile, enhancing engine efficiency and performance.
In terms of transmission, the C2 Citroën Sport was front-wheel drive, featuring reinforced transmission shafts and a 6-speed dog clutch gearbox with sequential control for rapid gear shifts. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front (300 x 28 mm for gravel and 355 x 28 mm for asphalt) and solid discs on the rear (290 x 8 mm), operated by 4-pot and 2-pot calipers respectively, ensuring efficient braking performance.
The suspension system of the C2 Citroën Sport included MacPherson-type front suspension and specific trailing arms with coil springs at the rear. Shock absorbers with external reservoirs were installed both front and rear, optimizing handling and stability. Hydraulic power-assisted steering was employed to provide precise control and feedback to the driver.
On the wheels and tires front, the C2 Citroën Sport rode on Michelin tires, with gravel rims measuring 6x15 and asphalt rims measuring 7x17, contributing to the car's overall performance and grip on different surfaces.
Structurally, the C2 Citroën Sport featured a reinforced body shell with a roll cage, glass fiber front and rear bumpers, and an airfoil for aerodynamic efficiency. Its dimensions included a length of 3,660 mm, width of 1,795 mm, wheelbase of 2,326 mm, front track of 1,633 mm, and rear track of 1,568 mm. The weight distribution of 60/40 front/rear optimized handling characteristics and stability, essential for a competitive racing vehicle.
Overall, the 2003 C2 Citroën Sport concept encapsulated Citroën's dynamic and forward-thinking approach to motorsports, combining advanced technology, precise engineering, and an aggressive design language to deliver exhilarating performance and driving experience on the track. The concept not only represented Citroën's commitment to motorsports but also its dedication to nurturing young driving talent through various sporting initiatives and programs.
Source & Images: Citroën
