Description
The Monica 350 was a luxury French sedan produced in the early 1970s by the French industrialist Jean Tastevin, who aimed to create a high-end, French-built alternative to the luxury cars of the time. Named after Tastevin’s wife, Monica, the car was intended to compete with brands like Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Rolls-Royce, combining refined design with strong performance.
The Monica 350 was originally powered by a 3.5-liter Chrysler V8 engine, which produced approximately 245 horsepower. This engine allowed the car to achieve a top speed of around 130 mph (209 km/h), delivering solid performance suited to long-distance cruising. The powertrain was mated to either a 3-speed automatic or a 4-speed manual transmission, providing flexibility for drivers seeking either ease of use or a more engaging driving experience.
The design of the Monica 350 was sleek and sophisticated, with Italian design influences, largely thanks to British designer Chris Lawrence. It featured a low-slung profile, sharp lines, and a luxurious yet understated aesthetic that distinguished it from its British and German competitors. The interior was crafted with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood accents, providing a high level of comfort and elegance for both driver and passengers.
Unfortunately, the Monica 350 faced challenges due to high production costs, limited resources, and the 1973 oil crisis, which led to reduced demand for large, fuel-hungry luxury cars. Only around 30 Monicas were produced before production ended in 1975, making it a rare and exclusive model. Today, the Monica 350 is valued as a collector’s item, representing an ambitious, if short-lived, chapter in the history of French luxury automotive engineering.