Could someone please help?

I am writing a novel and it is set in France during 1941 (South West - Vichy), I have used the Citroen 11BL as a car and have several questions:
Did this car have a key ignition and if not how did it start?
Should I use a 1939, 40 or 41 model?
Were these cars affordable, the owner is a town mayor?
Would you suggest a different more authentic vehicle?

On a side note does anyone have any knowledge of trucks in that era, anything used to transport prisoners etc?

Sorry for all the questions but I am trying to keep some authenticity.

Many thanks in advance.

Alex
30/09/2008 @ 01:32:06