The Avenger, or B-car as it was known during its gestation, was very much a Rootes Group design. However, it was not launched until February 1970, by which time the American Chrysler Corporation had been in control for nearly three years. Although in competition with the Ford Escort, Austin Allegro and many others, the Avenger sold well throughout the 1970s, reaching a peak of 78,000 examples in one year. Nevertheless, to maintain its appeal, Chrysler created a number of limited editions, such as the 1972 ‘Top Hat’ modelled here, which was based on the 1500 Super, and featured a white vinyl roof over electric blue paint.







