Citroën Visa

Citroën Visa (VD). 1978–88 (prod. n/a). 5-door saloon, 4-door convertible. F/F, 652 cm³ (I2 OHC), 1124, 1360, 1580 cm³ petrol, 1769 cm³ diesel (I4 OHC). The story of the Visa is possibly more interesting than the product itself: it started out as part of a joint venture with Fiat in the early ’70s, called Projet V; when that partnership floundered, it inherited a GS engine to become Projet Y; but when Peugeot took over the company in 1974, it was re-appraised to become Projet VD, a re-clothed Peugeot 104, emerging in 1978. Both four- and two-cylinder engines were offered, and the range expanded massively throughout the ’80s. Facelift arrived in 1981, which toned down the Visa’s singular styling. The C15 van survived well into the 21st century.

Manufacturing location: Paris, France

Marque: Citroën | Predecessor: Citroën Ami | Successor: Citroën AX

q.v. Peugeot 104, Talbot Samba, Wuling LZW 7100, Oltcit (1981–94)