Simca

The Simca 1000 coupé appeared at the 1962 Geneva Motor Show as a stylish sporting derivative of the successful 1000 saloon. Designed by a young Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, its elegant two-door body was built in Turin and transported to France for final assembly. Although it shared its rear-engined platform with the saloon, the coupé’s lower centre of gravity and aerodynamic body improved its handling and performance. Its 944 cc four-cylinder engine was tuned to produce 52 hp, giving a top speed of around 140 km/h. Four-wheel disc brakes were unusually advanced for a small car of the period. Despite its attractive styling, the relatively high price limited sales, with approximately 10,600 built before the model was substantially upgraded in 1967.

A major transformation in 1967 turned the 1000 coupé into the Simca 1200S. The rear-mounted engine grew to 1,204 cc and, with twin carburettors, produced 80 hp. The radiator moved to the front, requiring a new grille and improving weight distribution, while additional bonnet grilles gave the Bertone body a more aggressive appearance. Power rose to 85 hp in 1968, with a top speed of around 179 km/h. Most cars were assembled at Poissy, although 3,114 were completed in Rotterdam. Around 25,000 1200S models were produced before production ended in 1971.