| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1966 |
| Production Years: | 1966 - 1972 discontinued in 1972 |
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme is a classic European station wagon produced between 1966 and 1972. As part of the Talbot Simca lineup, the 1301 Tourisme combined practical estate bodywork with the reliable mechanical components typical of the mid-1960s to early 1970s automotive engineering. This station wagon was designed for families and users seeking utility without sacrificing style or comfort in an era when estate cars were increasingly popular for their versatility.
Though exact dimensions of the Simca 1301 Tourisme vary slightly by specification, the vehicle typically featured a length of approximately 4.3 meters (about 169 inches), a width near 1.6 meters (63 inches), and a height close to 1.45 meters (57 inches). Weighing roughly 1,000 to 1,100 kilograms (2,200 to 2,425 pounds), it was a moderately sized station wagon that balanced interior space and driving ease. Its compact yet spacious design made it well-suited for urban and suburban driving, giving families ample cargo capacity and passenger comfort.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme was appreciated for its smooth ride quality, economical engine options, and robust construction. The 1301 series was powered commonly by a 1.3-liter inline-four gasoline engine, which contributed to its reputation as an efficient and reliable daily driver. Its estate (station wagon) body style distinguished it from sedan variants, offering increased rear cargo space through a versatile hatchback opening. This made loading larger items more convenient, enhancing the vehicle’s practical appeal.
In the historical context, the Simca 1301 Tourisme competed with other European family wagons such as the Peugeot 404 Break, Renault 16, and Ford Taunus variants. It is remembered as a durable vehicle that offered substantial value in comfort and utility during a burgeoning period for station wagons in Europe.
Overall, the Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme from 1966 to 1972 stands out as a key example of a mid-size European station wagon of its time. It symbolizes a blend of thoughtful design, practical dimensions, and functional versatility, which continues to attract vintage car enthusiasts and collectors today.
Discover the standout features that make the 1966 Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme a leader in its class
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The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme station wagon, manufactured from 1966 to 1972, measures approximately 4,345 mm (171.1 inches) in length, 1,576 mm (62.0 inches) in width, and 1,390 mm (54.7 inches) in height. These dimensions place it within the compact family car category for its era, providing a good balance of interior space and manageable exterior size appropriate for urban and suburban use. The length and width ensure it can comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo, while the moderate height supports ease of entry and exit.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme station wagon weighs in at approximately 1,045 kg (2,304 lbs). For the mid-1960s to early 1970s compact station wagon segment, this weight is fairly typical. Compared to competitors such as the Peugeot 204 Break or Renault 12 Estate, which also occupied similar market niches, the Simca 1301 Tourisme's weight is on the lighter side, which contributed to its relatively nimble handling and efficient fuel consumption. This moderate weight also made it easier to handle and park in urban environments.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme station wagon was designed to comfortably seat five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom reflective of its compact segment. The rear seats could be folded down to increase cargo capacity significantly, making the station wagon versatile for carrying larger items. While exact interior volume specifications are scarce due to the age of the model, the car's design focused on maximizing space efficiency, ensuring practicality for small families or individuals needing versatile cargo options. The combination of moderate external dimensions and intelligent interior packaging made it a practical choice for everyday use.
A standard residential garage typically measures around 6,000 mm (19.7 feet) in length and 3,000 mm (9.8 feet) in width. Given the Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme's length of 4,345 mm (171.1 inches or about 14.3 feet) and width of 1,576 mm (62.0 inches or about 5.2 feet), this vehicle fits comfortably within a standard garage. Its moderate height of 1,390 mm (54.7 inches) also poses no issue for standard garage door heights. Therefore, owners can expect the Simca 1301 Tourisme to park with ample room around it, facilitating easy access and protection from the elements.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme succeeded earlier Simca station wagons like the Simca 1300 series. In terms of size, the 1301 Tourisme was similar in overall length and width to its predecessors, maintaining a compact footprint suitable for European roads. However, it featured modernized styling cues that included cleaner lines and a more contemporary silhouette that enhanced aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal. The interior layout was improved for passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. The station wagon maintained the practicality expected from the brand while introducing evolutions in both design and dimensions that made it slightly more refined and user-friendly.
At 1,576 mm (62.0 inches) wide, the Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme station wagon was comparable to other compact European station wagons of the time. For instance, the Peugeot 204 estate was around 1,570 mm (61.8 inches) wide, and the Renault 12 station wagon measured approximately 1,600 mm (63 inches) wide. This puts the Simca comfortably within the average width range, ensuring it was competitive in terms of road presence and interior shoulder room. Its width allowed for easy maneuvering in tight city streets and parking spaces prevalent in European urban environments.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme shared several similarities with other compact European station wagons in the late 1960s and early 1970s, such as the Peugeot 204 and Renault 12. All featured practical station wagon body styles aimed at families demanding versatility. Similarities included comparable dimensions, seating for five, and reasonable cargo flexibility with foldable rear seats. Differences lay primarily in styling, brand heritage, and engine options. The Simca 1301 Tourisme often emphasized a balance of simplicity and reliability, while competitors sometimes offered more advanced amenities or different engine technologies. Additionally, the Simca carried French-Italian design influences, giving it a unique visual identity in the segment.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme has a height of approximately 1,390 mm (54.7 inches). Although specific ground clearance data is limited, it was generally designed with a moderate clearance suitable for mostly paved roads common in Europe during its production period. The moderate height and clearance allowed for stable handling and ease of access for passengers. The station wagon’s design prioritized balance between a low center of gravity for good road manners and enough clearance to handle minor road imperfections without compromising comfort. This made it well-suited for everyday city and suburban driving.
The Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme was prized for its practical usability as a family station wagon during its production time from 1966 to 1972. While specific fuel efficiency figures depend on engine variants and driving conditions, its modest size and relatively light weight of around 1,045 kg (2,304 lbs) contributed to good fuel economy relative to larger vehicles. The station wagon configuration allowed families to carry passengers comfortably along with cargo such as groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With its balance of size, fuel efficiency, and cargo space, it was a practical and economical choice for European families looking for both daily driving flexibility and occasional long trips.
Yes, the Talbot Simca 1301 Tourisme station wagon fits comfortably in standard parking spaces and garages. With a length of 4,345 mm (171.1 inches or about 14.3 feet), a width of 1,576 mm (62.0 inches or about 5.2 feet), and height of 1,390 mm (54.7 inches), the car is smaller than many modern vehicles, particularly SUVs and crossovers. Given that a typical parking space is around 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 4,800 mm (189 inches) long, this Simca station wagon can be parked with ease in both older and modern standard infrastructure. This makes it a practical vehicle for users who have access to standard residential or urban parking.
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