Ligier Prima
| Company type | Microcar model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Founder | Ligier (automotive branch of Équipe Ligier) |
| Defunct | circa 1995 |
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | Microcars (Série 7, Optima, Optima 4) |
The Ligier Optima is a compact, two-passenger microcar with four wheels, manufactured between 1987 and around 1995 by Ligier, the automotive branch of the French Formula One outfit Équipe Ligier. From 1993 to 1995, a four-seat version known as the Optima 4 was also offered. Originally introduced as the Ligier Série 7, it was rebranded as Optima in 1989, succeeding the Série 5—the last model in a series that began with the angular Ligier JS4. These vehicles fall under the category of "", lightweight automobiles that do not require a driver’s license, designed primarily for seniors, novice drivers, or individuals holding restricted permits. Ligier additionally provided enhanced models compliant with limited licensing and favorable tax brackets. For international markets, engine outputs were often modified to meet local regulatory standards.
Série 7
Launched in 1987, the Série 7 adopted a more traditional automobile appearance compared to its JS4-based predecessor, with an extended length that improved storage space. It initially came equipped with a 325 cc single-cylinder diesel engine, which was soon replaced by a Japanese air-cooled 265 cc Fuji Robin unit. The initial powerplant produced roughly , with maximum speeds restricted to adhere to sans-permis legislation. The subsequent engine generated about , reflecting France’s transition to SI measurement units.
A premium variant called the Série 7 Twin (also known as the 650 Twin) required a specialized quadricycle license and was subject to a one tax horsepower (1CV) classification. This version was powered by a two-cylinder diesel engine sourced from Italy’s . For export destinations such as Germany, importer AutoTechnik Walther supplied a model fitted with a Sachs two-stroke engine just below 50 cc capacity, marketed under the names Ligier ATW-50L and later ATW-Plus-50L.
Optima
In November 1989, the vehicle underwent a facelift featuring orange wraparound front indicators and was renamed Ligier Optima.’ Initially available with the 265 cc diesel engine, the range expanded to include the Optima/Optimax Twin variants equipped with two-cylinder engines and front disc brakes. The Optimax' van version had a more squared-off rear design reminiscent of the Renault Express and Citroën C15. German distributor AutoTechnik Walther (ATW) continued offering a permit-exempt model powered by a 49-cc Sachs engine and also developed an electric motor variant assembled at their Bad Rappenau facility. This electric model utilized 10-inch wheels and drum brakes on all corners; however, testers noted these brakes were insufficient for its heavier weight and speeds exceeding in Power mode. Its price was notably steep—reaching up to in 1993 when fully optioned—comparable to entry-level Audi 100 models of that era.
A subtle redesign in 1992 resulted in the Optima II badge. In 1993, further updates introduced a larger mesh grille and the model was renamed Prima (though commercially still branded as Optimax). The Optima Twin was succeeded by the longer Optima 4, which accommodated four passengers thanks to an extended wheelbase and featured removable rear seats. Fully equipped with tinted glass and both front and rear seat belts, the Optima 4 was powered by a three-cylinder Perkins diesel engine delivering at 3,600 rpm. Front disc brakes remained standard to handle the added power and increased mass.