Chrysler (Simca-Talbot) GLS (Plymouth Horizon/Dodge Omni). White version in Celanova (Spain)
The Chrysler Horizon is a compact hatchback that was designed by Chrysler Europe and was produced from 1978 to 1987 under the Chrysler, Simca and Talbot nameplates. The successor to both the Simca 1100 and Hillman Avenger, the Horizon adopted a front-wheel drive, transverse-engine layout.
The model line was the first (and only) world car developed by Chrysler Corporation, who developed the American-market Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon in tandem, following the start of the Chrysler Europe project. While similar in appearance (for the Plymouth brand, sharing a nameplate), the Horizon would have substantial functional differences from its American counterpart.
Following the 1978 sale of Chrysler Europe to Peugeot, the Horizon was rebranded under the revived Talbot marque from 1979 onward. Alongside assembly in Chrysler Europe (later Peugeot) facilities in France and the United Kingdom, the Horizon was assembled by Saab in Finland and by Peugeot-Talbot in Spain.
The Horizon was intended to be a “world car”, meaning that it was designed for consumers on both sides of the Atlantic, but in execution, the European and North American versions of the vehicle actually turned out to have very little in common. Born largely out of the need to replace the ageing Simca 1100 in France, the Horizon was essentially a shortened version of the larger Alpine model, giving the vehicle an unusually wide track for its length. Featuring “Poissy engine” of transversely mounted, Simca-designed 1.1, 1.3 and 1.5-litre OHV engines, 4-speed gearbox and torsion-bar suspension, the Horizon gained praise for its crisp styling, supple ride, and competent handling.
Made in Spain (Madrid)
Years of production: 1977-87
Engine: V4, 1500 cc
Power: 60 HP
Weight: ≈ 1 T
