1959 Other Makes Simca P60 Aronde Oceane Convertible

1959 Simca P60 Aronde Oceane. This car is relatively unknown outside of France, Simca was founded by Fiat in 1934 and eventually became a subsidiary of Chrysler Europe. The Aronde line had been released in late 1955, and in the fall of 1957 a pair of sporty models joined the ranks, the Plein Ciel coupe and roadster and the Oceane, both with bodies supplied by Facel of Paris. Fitted with the Flash Special 1,290cc engine, Simcas were efficient cars but lacked the performance of other European and American cars of the era. With a price of $3,167, they were also more expensive than most other cars on the market therefore few were imported.

This Simca was originally purchased new in 1961 from Southeast Motor Co. in Wichita, Kansas by a Mr. Joseph Doidge. Then in 1966 Mr. Doidge relocated to Olivehurst, California where the car was driven regularly until 1976 where it was stored in his grandmother’s garage until recently. It is increasingly common to find highly original cars accompanied by original factory documentation and ownership records, this Simca has both. Included with the car are several registration receipts from both Kansas and California, 2 hand notated maintenance booklets, original Simca manuals and most remarkably the original sales order from the dealership where it was sold. This rare classic sits in very original and well preserved condition having spent much of its life in storage in the dry California climate. It can be driven and enjoyed as is or restored as desired in the future. Either way, this is a unique opportunity to acquire one of only a few Simcas imported into the US in the early 60s.

Highlights:

California car
1,290cc inline 4 cylinder “Flash Special”
4-speed manual transmission
4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
Newer convertible top with boot cover
Wrap-around windshield
Original steering wheel