The Simca 1307 was a large family car produced by Chrysler Europe and subsequently PSA Peugeot Citröen from 1975 to 1986. It was designed in the United Kingdom and engineered by Simca in France.
1977 Dutch advertisement for the Simca 1307 / 1308
In its day it was a modern, front-wheel drive hatchback. It was voted the 1976 European Car of the Year.
Chrysler Alpine
The model went by various names, including Simca 1308 and 1309 (with larger engines), Chrysler Alpine (UK and Ireland, and later Talbot 1510 / Talbot Alpine / Talbot 150. After the PSA takeover, and adoption of the Talbot brand name, they also brought out a saloon version, called the Talbot Solara.
When it was launched in June 1976, the Rover SD1, was a very bold step forward by Rover standards. Gone was the Auntie Rover image and in its place was a new low drag sporty hatchback.
Rover SD1 2000
Inspired by the Ferrari Daytona, designed by Director of styling David Bache, the 3500, with its 155 BHP V8 engine, showed great promise. Initially very successful, but after a while things started to go wrong, such as paint problems, water leaks, rust, and poor reliability.
The Rover won the coveted European Car of the Year award in 1977.
1977 Car of the Year #COTY
1982 brought the launch of the Series 2 models, with revised trim levels and body updates, now with most of the problems with paint and reliability behind it, as well as new models being introduced, sales improved.
1985 Rover SD1
Rover SD1 Vitesse
Last in the range was the Vitesse and production ceased in October 1986. In all about 300,000 SD1s were produced.
