Simca Vedette
A slice of American-style luxury with a French accent and a miniature V8.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.2 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$28k
About the Simca Vedette
The Simca Vedette was born from Simca's 1954 acquisition of Ford SAF, inheriting a design that was essentially a three-quarter scale American Ford. It is famously powered by the 'Aquilon' V8, a 2.4-litre flathead unit that remains one of the smallest series-production V8 engines ever made. While its American styling and chrome-heavy trim suggested high performance, the Vedette was actually a comfortable executive cruiser designed for the French '13 CV' tax class. It offered a unique blend of Detroit-inspired aesthetics and European road manners, featuring modern MacPherson strut front suspension.
Simca Vedette specs
The Simca Vedette produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 144 Nm (106 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.2 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Simca |
|---|---|
| Model | Vedette |
| Trim | 2.4 V8 |
| Years | 1954–1961 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | France |
| Engine | 2.4-litre Aquilon sidevalve V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,351 cc (2.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 144 Nm (106 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 17.2 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,150 kg (2,535 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 70 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 Vedette worth?
A typical Simca Vedette is estimated to be worth $10,000 – $28,000 (about £7,500 – £21,000).
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 Vedette rarity in CarSpot
The Simca Vedette is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 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 Vedette fun facts
- The Vedette's Aquilon V8 is a direct descendant of the 1936 Ford V8-60 'Flathead' engine.
- French President Charles de Gaulle used a specially coachbuilt four-door convertible version of the Vedette, the Présidence, as his official state car.
- The car was so American in its styling that it was briefly marketed in the United States by Chrysler dealers after they acquired a stake in Simca.
