Chrysler Alpine
The avant-garde European Car of the Year that redefined the family hatchback.
- Power
- 85 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 102 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$12k
About the Chrysler Alpine
The Chrysler Alpine, known as the Simca 1307/1308 in continental Europe, was a landmark design that won the 1976 European Car of the Year award. Styled by Roy Axe in the UK but engineered by Simca in France, it was one of the first large family hatchbacks to challenge the traditional 'three-box' saloon dominance of the Ford Cortina. The 1.4 GL trim featured the 'Poissy' overhead-valve engine, which was praised for its reliability despite a characteristic tappety rattle. Though it suffered from severe rust issues that have made survivors incredibly rare, it is now celebrated as a pioneer of the modern front-wheel-drive family car layout.
Chrysler Alpine specs
The Chrysler Alpine produces 85 bhp (63 kW) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).
| Make | Chrysler |
|---|---|
| Model | Alpine |
| Trim | 1.4 GL |
| Years | 1975–1980 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.4-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,442 cc (1.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 85 bhp (63 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 102 mph (164 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,050 kg (2,315 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 81 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chrysler Alpine worth?
A typical Chrysler Alpine is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $12,000 (about £1,100 – £8,600).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chrysler Alpine rarity in CarSpot
The Chrysler Alpine is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 21 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chrysler Alpine fun facts
- The Alpine was the first British-built car to feature electronic ignition as standard, a major selling point in the late 1970s.
- Despite its British styling and assembly at the Ryton plant, it was essentially a French Simca underneath, using a floorpan derived from the Simca 1100.
- It beat the BMW 3 Series (E21) and the Renault 30 to win the European Car of the Year title in 1976.
