Monica 560 (1972-75)

Overview: The **Monica 560** was a pivotal model for the **Monica company** in 1972, marking its ambitious attempt to establish a **French luxury automobile brand** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). The company was founded by **Jean Tastevin**, a French industrialist, who named the car after his wife, Monique - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). The Monica 560 was designed to **fill the void left by Facel Vega**, a prestigious French luxury car manufacturer that had ceased operations in 1964 - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29).

The Monica 560 was unveiled at the **Paris Salon in 1972**, showcasing a **5.6-litre Chrysler V8 engine** and a **sleek grand tourer design** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). Despite its promising debut, the company faced financial difficulties, exacerbated by the **1973 oil crisis**, which led to the closure of the Monica factory in 1974. Only **a handful of production cars** were completed before operations ceased.

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COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Monica 560, being a rare and low-production vehicle, doesn't have a widely documented list of common faults. However, given its limited production and the era it was built in, some potential issues could include: 

1. **Electrical Problems**: Older cars often face issues with wiring and electrical components. 

2. **Mechanical Wear**: Components like the engine, transmission, and suspension may show signs of wear due to age. 

3. **Rust and Corrosion**: Depending on how the car was stored, there could be rust issues, especially in areas prone to moisture. 

4. **Fuel System**: The fuel system, including pumps and filters, might need attention after many years of inactivity. If you're considering purchasing or maintaining a Monica 560, consulting with a classic car specialist or mechanic experienced with vintage vehicles would be a good idea. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

The Monica 560 was offered in a few different trim levels, primarily distinguished by the engine and some interior features: 1. **Monica 350**: The initial version featuring a 3.5-liter V8 engine. 

2. **Monica 560**: The upgraded version with a more powerful 5.6-litre Chrysler V8 engine, which provided 285 horsepower and a claimed top speed of 150 mph. Both versions came with luxurious features such as air conditioning, a hi-fi system, electric windows, and leather trim. 

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Designer/Dimensions

The **Monica 560** was designed by **Tony Rascanu** and **David Coward**, blending **French luxury aesthetics** with **grand tourer performance** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). 

**Dimensions**

- **Wheelbase:** **2,769 mm** (109.0 in)

- **Length:** **4,928 mm** (194.0 in)

- **Width:** **1,803 mm** (71.0 in)

- **Height:** **1,346 mm** (53.0 in)

- **Kerb weight:** **1,821 kg** (4,015 lb)

Its proportions were similar to other high-end grand tourers of the era, offering a **sleek, elongated profile** with a **low stance** for aerodynamic efficiency.

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Production Total: The Monica 560 had a total production of around 40 cars, including 22 prototypes and 8 production cars. The project was short-lived due to the 1973 Oil Crisis, which led to the factory's closure in 1974. 

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Price New: The **intended new price** for the **Monica 560** in the UK in **1972** is not widely documented, but historical sources suggest it was positioned as a **high-end luxury vehicle**, meaning it would have been priced competitively with other grand tourers of the era. 

Later auction records indicate that a **1972 Monica 560** sold for **£55,000** in 2011, but this does not necessarily reflect its original intended price. If you're looking for a precise figure, I can dig deeper!

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Sales: Only **a handful** of Monica 560s were ever sold before the company shut down in **1974**. The Monica brand was short-lived, with only **8 production cars** completed, alongside **22 prototypes**. 

In later years, some Monica 560s surfaced at auctions. For example, one was sold for **£55,000** in **2011**. Given their rarity, they are now considered **highly collectible** among classic car enthusiasts.

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Rivals: In **1972**, the **Monica 560** was competing with other high-end luxury grand tourers, including the **Jaguar XJ12**, **Aston Martin DBS V8**, and **Citroën SM**. Here’s a look at their approximate new prices in the UK at the time:

- **Jaguar XJ12** – Around **£3,500**

- **Aston Martin DBS V8** – Around **£7,500**

- **Citroën SM** – Around **£4,500**

The **Monica 560** was expected to be priced significantly higher due to its exclusivity and bespoke craftsmanship, making it a niche competitor in the luxury market.

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The **Monica 560** competed with several high-end grand tourers in the early 1970s, each offering distinct performance characteristics:

- **Jaguar XJ12** – **5.3L V12**, **272 hp**, **0-60 mph in ~7.4 sec**, **top speed ~140 mph**

- **Aston Martin DBS V8** – **5.3L V8**, **320 hp**, **0-60 mph in ~6.0 sec**, **top speed ~160 mph**

- **Citroën SM** – **2.7L V6**, **170 hp**, **0-60 mph in ~8.5 sec**, **top speed ~137 mph**

- **Maserati Quattroporte II** – **3.0L V6**, **190 hp**, **0-60 mph in ~9.0 sec**, **top speed ~130 mph**

The **Monica 560**, with its **5.6L Chrysler V8**, produced **285 hp** and was capable of **0-60 mph in ~7.0 sec**, with a **top speed of ~150 mph** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). It was positioned as a luxurious yet performance-oriented grand tourer, competing with the likes of Aston Martin and Maserati.

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Engine/s 

The Monica 560 was equipped with a: 5.6-litre Chrysler V8 engine producing around **285 horsepower**. - **Torque**: Approximately **446 Nm (329 lb-ft)** at 4000 rpm

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Performance 

The Monica 560 was known for its impressive performance for a luxury sedan of its time: - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29) - **0-60 mph (0-100 km/h)**: Approximately **6.2 seconds**. - **Top Speed**: Around **149 mph (240 km/h)**. These performance results made the Monica 560 one of the fastest sedans of its era, often referred to as "The fastest sedan in the world" at the time - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). 

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of **2025**, there are **no recorded Monica 560s** currently licensed or on SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) in the UK. This suggests that any surviving examples are either in private collections, unregistered, or located outside the UK.

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Target Age Group: The **Monica 560** was aimed at **wealthy, mature buyers** who sought a **luxurious grand tourer** with **French elegance and exclusivity**. Given its high-end positioning, it was likely targeted at **middle-aged professionals and affluent enthusiasts** who appreciated **bespoke craftsmanship** and **performance** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). 

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Influence of the Target Age Group

The **Monica 560**, produced between **1972 and 1975**, was aimed at **wealthy, mature buyers** who sought a **luxurious grand tourer** with **French elegance and exclusivity**. Given its high-end positioning, it was likely targeted at **middle-aged professionals and affluent enthusiasts** who appreciated **bespoke craftsmanship** and **performance**. 

Designed to **fill the void left by Facel Vega**, the Monica 560 was expected to compete with **prestigious European grand tourers** like **Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and Maserati**. Its **sleek styling, powerful Chrysler V8 engine, and refined interior** catered to buyers who valued **comfort, speed, and exclusivity**. 

However, the **1973 oil crisis** significantly impacted demand for high-performance luxury cars, leading to the **closure of the Monica factory in 1974**. With only **a handful of production cars completed**, the Monica 560 remains a **rare and collectible classic** today.

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Parts Bin Engineering

The **Monica 560**, produced between **1972 and 1975**, incorporated components from several manufacturers to enhance its performance and luxury appeal. It was powered by a **5.6-litre Chrysler V8 engine**, delivering **285 bhp**, ensuring strong performance - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). The transmission options included a **3-speed automatic Chrysler TorqueFlite** and a **5-speed manual gearbox from ZF**, a German manufacturer - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). 

Additionally, the Monica 560 featured **Dunlop disc brakes**, providing reliable stopping power - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). The car was developed with input from **LawrenceTune Engines**, which initially worked on a **2.6-litre Triumph-based engine** before the switch to Chrysler power - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). 

These borrowed components helped the Monica 560 compete with grand tourers from **Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and Maserati**, making it a unique attempt at reviving the tradition of high-end French automobiles - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). Let me know if you'd like more details!

Spares/Specialists 

Finding spares for a Monica 560 can be quite challenging due to its rarity. However, here are a few places in the UK and Ireland where you might be able to locate parts: 

1. **Hobby and LMC Parts Online**: They offer a wide range of parts and accessories for classic cars. You can check their website or contact them directly for specific inquiries. 

2. **Quinnspares**: Based in Derry and Dublin, they specialize in appliance spare parts but might have connections or be able to source parts for classic cars as well. 

3. **Classic Car Shows and Auctions**: Attending classic car shows, auctions, and online marketplaces like Bring a Trailer can sometimes lead to finding rare parts or connecting with other enthusiasts who might have spares. It's always a good idea to join Monica 560 clubs or forums where members might have spare parts or be able to offer advice on where to find them. 

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Racing 

The Monica 560 did not have a notable racing history. It was primarily designed as a luxury grand tourer, focusing on providing a high level of comfort and performance for road use. The car's development was led by Jean Tastevin, who aimed to create a French luxury car to rival other prestigious brands. 

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Valuation 

The value of a Monica 560 can vary significantly based on its condition, provenance, and rarity. Given that only around 40 cars were produced, they are highly sought after by collectors. Here are some general price ranges: - **Average Condition**: Approximately £50,000 to £100,000. - **Restored Condition**: Up to £150,000 or more. These values can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of the car. 

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Clubs

There doesn’t seem to be a dedicated **Monica 560 owners club** in **Northern Ireland**, but there are plenty of classic car clubs that might welcome enthusiasts of rare vehicles. One of the most active clubs in the region is the **Morris Minor Owners Club NI Branch**, which has been around since **1980** and regularly organizes events.

If you're looking for a community of classic car enthusiasts, you might find some interest in broader vintage car clubs in Northern Ireland. 

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History

The **Monica 560** was a bold attempt to revive **French luxury automobile manufacturing** in the early 1970s. The project was spearheaded by **Jean Tastevin**, an industrialist who wanted to create a high-end grand tourer to rival the likes of **Facel Vega** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29).

**Development & Prototypes**

Tastevin initially planned to use a **2.6-liter Triumph engine**, but it lacked refinement, leading to a switch to a **3.5-liter V8** designed by **Ted Martin**. Eventually, the car was fitted with a **5.6-liter Chrysler V8**, producing **285 horsepower**, which gave it the performance expected of a luxury grand tourer - RETRO - L'AUTOMOBILE SPORTIVE](https://www.automobile-sportive.com/guide/monica/560.php).

**Launch & Challenges**

The Monica 560 debuted at the **1972 Paris Salon**, boasting a **sleek design** and **high-end craftsmanship**. However, the timing was unfortunate—the **1973 oil crisis** severely impacted demand for luxury cars, and the company struggled financially - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29). By **1975**, the project was abandoned, with only **8 production cars** completed alongside **22 prototypes** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monica_%28automobile%29).

**Legacy**

Despite its short-lived production, the Monica 560 remains a **rare and collectible** vehicle. Some surviving models have appeared at auctions, fetching significant prices. It stands as a testament to **French automotive ambition**, even if it never reached mass production.

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