Description
The Monica 590 was an ambitious French luxury sedan developed as an upscale successor to the earlier Monica 350. Launched in the early 1970s, the Monica 590 featured enhancements that elevated it within the luxury car market, aiming to compete with high-end British and German brands like Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Benz. The project was the vision of French industrialist Jean Tastevin, who sought to create a world-class luxury car with French craftsmanship at its core.
The Monica 590 was powered by a larger 5.9-liter Chrysler V8 engine, giving it a significant boost in power over the 350. This engine produced approximately 285 horsepower, allowing the 590 to reach impressive speeds around 140 mph (225 km/h), making it a strong performer among luxury sedans of its time. The engine was paired with either a 3-speed automatic or a 4-speed manual transmission, providing smooth acceleration and responsive handling for a comfortable high-speed touring experience.
Externally, the 590 retained the sleek, elegant lines of the Monica 350, but it was more refined, with minor styling updates to reflect its increased stature. Inside, the 590 offered a plush, handcrafted cabin featuring premium leather, wood trim, and meticulous attention to detail in its appointments, delivering a level of comfort and luxury aimed at an elite clientele.
Unfortunately, the Monica 590 faced several challenges. The 1973 oil crisis and rising fuel costs made large V8-powered luxury cars less attractive, and high production costs compounded by limited market reach hindered its commercial success. Production was discontinued after only a small number of units were made, making it one of the rarest luxury cars of the era.
Today, the Monica 590 is celebrated as a rare collectible, embodying an era when craftsmanship and ambition led to bold automotive projects, even in the face of economic obstacles.