Cult vehicle belonging to Schimanski set for transportation in Duisburg.
Duisburg: Restoring Schimanski's Iconic Cult Car
Since its debut in 1985, a Citroën CX has been a significant part of the German TV series "Tatort," serving as the trusty steed for the rugged Ruhrpott commissioner, Horst Schimanski, played by the late Götz George. After spending nearly a year stationary, the original Schimanski car is set to be restored by a local club in Duisburg.
The Citroën CX, a 1988-built 2400 Turbo model, acquired by Duisburg Kontor—the city's tourism and marketing subsidiary—in 2021, has made appearances at various classic car meetings, rallies, and recently at the "Schimanski" exhibition in the Inland Shipping Museum. However, the car was rendered immobile due to an unattainable spare part.
Alexander Klomparend of Duisburg Kontor admits that the Citroën is a "regular patient," but the Automobile and Motorcycle Sports Club (AMC) Duisburg will take on its restoration. AMC board chairman Norbert Zander is confident about the upcoming project, which is expected to start within the week.
For the AMC, this undertaking is not merely a challenge but a tribute to Schimanski's legacy and the city of Duisburg. The club plans to bring the Citroën back on the road by fall, preserving its original glory. Once restored, the vehicle will resume its role as a cultural ambassador for the city, appearing at events, trade fairs, and serving as a symbol of the Ruhrpott region.
The car's significance extends beyond its on-screen presence, embodying the essence of Schimanski and the grit of the Ruhrpott cityscape. As a celebrated piece of popular culture, its restoration is eagerly anticipated by fans of the series and the city alike.
The Automobile and Motorcycle Sports Club (AMC) Duisburg, recognizing the car's importance in both entertainment and the city's identity, will restore the Schimanski's iconic Citroën CX. This project serves as a tribute to the show's legacy and the city of Duisburg, keeping the vehicle's original appeal for future generations. Moreover, the restored Citroën CX will continue to symbolize the spirit of Ruhrpott in European leagues, movies-and-tv, and sports events, particularly football.
