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Talbot Solara: variants, engines and what to know when buying
The Talbot Solara is the saloon version of the 1980–1986 Chrysler Alpine (Simca 1307), sold under the Talbot badge. We look at its origins, engines and what to check when buying this rare car in Lithuania.
Solara in brief
The Talbot Solara is the saloon version of the Chrysler Alpine (Simca 1307) family hatchback. The Alpine was one of the first large family hatchbacks with front-wheel drive: it was built by Chrysler Europe in Poissy, France, with styling by Roy Axe's team in the UK. In 1976, it was named European Car of the Year.
After PSA Peugeot Citroën took over Chrysler Europe, the model was updated and sold under the Talbot badge. The hatchback was called the Talbot Alpine (in some markets, the 1510), while the saloon was the Talbot Solara. The Solara was sold in France, the UK, Spain and other countries.
How the Solara differs from the Alpine
The key difference is the body: the Solara has a classic saloon profile with a separate boot, making it more traditional and refined than the hatchback. The mechanics, platform and main components are essentially the same as the Alpine.
Thanks to the boot, the Solara looks more traditional than the hatchback, yet the interior space remains the same as the Alpine.
Engines and gearboxes
The Alpine family used the "Poissy" family of petrol engines — 1.3 L (1294 cc), 1.4 L (1442 cc), and later the 1.6 L. These were paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, and later versions featured a five-speed. Front-wheel drive.
The Solara was offered with 1.3 and 1.6 L petrol engines (in some markets, others as well). Exact power outputs depended on the market and version, so check what engine and gearbox a specific car has before buying.
What to check when buying a used Solara
These cars are around 40 years old, so the body condition is key. Inspect the sills, floor, undersides of the wings, boot floor, and window seals. Many European cars from that era rust, so the condition depends heavily on how the car was maintained.
Check the engine cooling system, oil leaks, clutch, and gearbox. The electrical system on an old "Talbot" can be finicky, so test all switch and lighting functions.
Spare parts in Lithuania are almost non-existent: mechanical parts are often shared with the "Chrysler/Simca Alpine", but you'll need to look abroad for body parts and trim. Opt for the most complete, least tampered-with car.
Versions by trim level
Names and equipment vary by market, so we list the versions for reference.
Pagal įrangos lygį
1980–1986The Solara was offered in several trim levels, from the most basic to better-equipped versions.
- Often — basic versions with a manual gearbox
- Often — higher-spec versions with better interior trim
- Equipment and names vary by market
Engine comparison
| Mažesnis variklis (apie 1,3 l) | Didesnis variklis (apie 1,6 l) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For relaxed city driving | For versatile use |
| Engine | The 1.3-litre petrol engine from the Poissy family | The 1.6-litre petrol engine from the Poissy family |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Euro | Euro |
For most buyers, the key is how little rust damage there is and how complete the car is. If possible, the larger 1.6-litre engine is usually recommended.
Pros
- Spacious, traditional family saloon
- Front-wheel drive and simple manual gearbox
- Mechanical parts are shared with the Chrysler/Simca Alpine
- A rare and collector's classic car
Cons
- The body is prone to rust
- Very hard to find body and interior parts
- Limited supply in Lithuania, difficult to maintain
Frequently asked questions
How does the Solara differ from the Alpine?
The Solara is the sedan and estate version, while the Alpine is a hatchback. The technology is essentially the same.
Is the Solara the same as the Simca 1307?
Essentially yes: the Solara is a member of the Chrysler Alpine/Simca 1307 family, later sold under the Talbot badge as a sedan and estate.
Is the Solara suitable for daily driving?
It's a car over forty years old, so it's usually used for seasonal driving and shows.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
