Debuting in 1961, the Ami 6 marked an evolutionary leap from Citroën’s iconic 2CV, a car celebrated alongside the Volkswagen Beetle, Mini, and Land Rover as one of the timeless post-war classics. These two vehicles, the Ami 6 and 2CV, shared a common platform and boasted an advanced all-independent suspension system, but the Ami 6 exclusively featured the 602cc engine.

The Ami made its grand entrance in April 1961, stealing the spotlight four months before the highly anticipated Renault 4 entered the scene as its rival. Both the Renault 4 and Citroën Ami were conceived to cater to a maturing market that demanded vehicles slightly larger, better equipped, and less spartan than the basic 2CV. Emphasizing the Ami’s recreational potential, its advertisements proudly showcased photographs of easily removable seats being transformed into picnic chairs.

Performance-wise, both the 2CV6 and Ami 6 maintained a modest top speed of approximately 105 km/h (65 mph). However, this fact didn’t deter the majority of their enthusiasts, who prioritized the spacious interior and fuel efficiency above all else. The Ami 6 was available in both saloon and Break (estate) configurations, but it was eventually phased out in 1971 after surpassing the remarkable milestone of producing over 1 million units.