Simca 1000
The quintessentially French rear-engined economy saloon that defined Simca's success for nearly two decades.
- Power
- 42 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 23.5 s
- Top speed
- 81 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$11k
About the Simca 1000
The Simca 1000 was launched in 1961 as a rear-engined competitor to the Renault 8 and Volkswagen Beetle, featuring a boxy three-box design by Mario Revelli di Beaumont. The 1.0 LS variant represents the core of the range during the 1970s, offering a simple, robust overhead-valve engine and a fully synchronised gearbox. Its rear-heavy weight distribution provided light steering but required careful handling in crosswinds, a characteristic common to its layout. While the Rallye models gained competition fame, the standard 1000 remained a staple of French motoring life until production ended in 1978.
Simca 1000 specs
The Simca 1000 produces 42 bhp (31 kW) and 64 Nm (47 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 23.5 seconds and has a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
| Make | Simca |
|---|---|
| Model | 1000 |
| Trim | 1.0 LS |
| Years | 1961–1978 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | France |
| Original price | About $1,700 when new |
| Engine | 944cc inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 944 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 42 bhp (31 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 64 Nm (47 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 23.5 s |
| Top speed | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 730 kg (1,609 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 58 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Simca 1000 worth?
A typical Simca 1000 is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $11,000 (about £2,600 – £8,200).
Its original price when new was about $1,700.
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
Simca 1000 rarity in CarSpot
The Simca 1000 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 22 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.
Simca 1000 fun facts
- The Simca 1000 project actually began as 'Project 122' at Fiat, intended to be the successor to the 600, before being rejected and sold to Simca.
- Despite its humble appearance, the 1000 was the basis for the Abarth-tuned Simca 1150, which could reach speeds of over 100 mph.
- The model was so successful in its home market that it remained in production for 17 years, outlasting many of its more modern front-engined successors.