Jan 5, 2018 • Uncategorized •

I’m drawn to two types of cars. Those best described with words like “muscular” or “brawny”, and those that “adorable”, or “fetching” best fit. This 1950 Simca 8 cabriolet barn find, found here on eBay, might just be the definition of “adorable” in my eyes. It’s hard not to be swept away in the purely European lines, the stance, and the style of this little beauty.

This cabriolet comes from a wonderful heritage, but a broken family. Designed by Pininfarina, these soft-tops were crafted by renowned French coach building firm Facel Metallon, which was best known for its glorious Facel-Vegas. So it’s good looks come from some of most amazing style influences of the time. The French auto company Simca , however, was founded in 1934 as a marriage with Fiat to enter the French market, then had divorces and marriages with Ford, Chrysler and Peugeot until the last of the Simca’s (also marketed at Talbot) were produced until the late 1980’s.

This particular survivor, which is back on the market after being offered a year ago without the asking price being achieved, stirs the blood of anyone who wants a truly amazing little convertible to drive, show, or both. However, according to the seller in Texas, you’ll have to get the oil stirring first – as it needs mechanical attention to get running. Offered at $50k, it seems a bit pricey for a rebuild, but it is interesting to note that in just a week or so, a running twin Simca 8 is being offered at auction at the Coys Grandes Marques in the Netherlands, with an expected fetch of $70k to $90k.

So perhaps an offer with a bit of a discount will start your 2018 as the 3rd owner of this 1950 Simca cabriolet project – with it’s amazing examples of design and style purity. I love the well-worn interior, the ultra-simple dash and adorable center instrumentation. In an era where cars are generic, computer-aided, twins to each other – you can’t help but appreciate the Deco influences, the joy, and the love its creators poured into this sprite little convertible!