March 24, 1982 Citroën has created the VISA “Chrono”, a special series of 100 copiesexclusive to the French market and inspired by the VISA “Trophée”, that is, a car produced in an edition of 200 copies and intended for rally competition.
From its spicier sister, “Chrono” inherited some Exterior settings and dashboard with a sporty soul. Standard equipment also included front fog lamps, alloy wheels painted in the same color as the body, contoured seats and a dashboard full of elements reminiscent of the world of racing.
The engine supplied with the first thousand VISA “Chrono” was 1360 cc and 93 hp, in combination with a 5-speed gearbox are able to push this car weighing only 850 kg, up to 173 km/h and from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.2 s.
In 1983, Citroën repeated the success of the VISA “Chrono” with a second series of 1,650 examples destined for France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Italy. They arrived in Italy 400 numbered unitsdecorated with red and green stripes on the sides on a white background.
liveries vary for each countryresembling the national colors, and engines were also adapted: 93 horsepower for France, 80 horsepower for most other markets and 72 horsepower in Switzerland due to anti-pollution regulations. This approach the emphasis is on customization for different European markets.
The price for Italy was approx. 10,403,000 liras but, despite the cost, the drive convinced most of the public, and the habitability and comfort characteristics typical of the small Citroën made it an immediate bestseller, so much so that the 400 units produced sold out very quickly.
Unfortunately, however, misuse and various recycling campaigns over the years have meant that most “Italian” Chronos left the streets of Bel Paese.
In 2015 Moreno Tassinaria former Citroën repairman and VISA enthusiast has masterfully restored a rare example VISA “Chrono” No. 102sold in Ravenna in 1983. Despite the completeness and outwardly good condition, the car is presented rust is hidden under the sills and in the wheel arches.
Tassinari has completely disassembled the carmajor overhaul of the engine, suspension and electrical system. He replaced damaged components such as shock absorbers and rear axle mounts, and the engine only needed some light work and a carburetor calibration. The body has been restored, preserving as much of the original materials as possible, and the decorations have been faithfully reproduced.
After five months of work the car is back on the road with excellent performance: powerful brakes, stiff suspension and lively ride. The VISA “Chrono” reaffirms itself as a car designed for fun, combining style, comfort and low cost, still true to the goals of forty years ago.
Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.