Talbot Samba
The final flourish of the Talbot brand and once Europe's most economical car.
- Power
- 50 bhp
- Top speed
- 89 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$8k
About the Talbot Samba
Launched in 1981, the Talbot Samba was the last new model to carry the Talbot badge before the marque was retired by PSA. Based on a shortened Peugeot 104 chassis, it was designed to be a more modern and efficient successor to the Talbot Sunbeam. The 1.1-litre version was the mainstay of the range, briefly holding the title of Europe's most economical car with a recorded 61.4 mpg at a constant 56 mph. While it offered a comfortable ride and decent space for its size, its success was short-lived as it was quickly overshadowed by the revolutionary Peugeot 205. Today, it is a rare sight on UK roads, making well-preserved examples a curiosity for collectors of 1980s French superminis.
Talbot Samba specs
The Talbot Samba produces 50 bhp (37 kW) and 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 89 mph (143 km/h).
| Make | Talbot |
|---|---|
| Model | Samba |
| Trim | 1.1 |
| Years | 1981–1986 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | France |
| Engine | 1.1-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,124 cc (1.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 50 bhp (37 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 89 mph (143 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 740 kg (1,631 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 68 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Talbot Samba worth?
A typical Talbot Samba is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $7,500 (about £1,100 – £5,600).
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
Talbot Samba rarity in CarSpot
The Talbot Samba is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 16 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.
Talbot Samba fun facts
- The Samba was the only Talbot model not inherited from Chrysler Europe, having been developed entirely under PSA ownership.
- At its launch, the Samba was the only small car in Europe available as a factory-produced cabriolet, designed by Pininfarina.
- The Samba's floor pan was actually six inches longer than the Peugeot 104 Z on which it was based, providing significantly more rear legroom.