Sunbeam 1600
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1963 |
| Headquarters | Coventry , United Kingdom |
| Products | Hillman Avenger (automobile) |
The Hillman Avenger is a subcompact vehicle designed to seat five passengers, featuring a front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive. Developed and produced by the Rootes Group in the United Kingdom, it was sold worldwide from 1970 to 1978. The model was available in two- and four-door sedan versions as well as a five-door estate.
As a newly engineered model, the Avenger showcased a traditional yet cost-effective configuration. Its notable characteristics included four doors, seating positioned at chair height, a four-link coil spring rear suspension, and distinctive J-shaped "hockey stick" style taillights.
The concept originated in 1963, with Design Director Roy Axe receiving the styling assignment in 1965. Engineering efforts commenced in 1966. Among the pioneering vehicles to utilize computer-aided design (CAD) for its unibody structure, it incorporated safety innovations such as a reinforced passenger cell with a front crumple zone, strengthened laminated glass for the windshield, and a padded dashboard.
Production started at Rootes' Ryton-on-Dunsmore facility near Coventry, which underwent an £8 million refurbishment (£154 million adjusted to 2025 values). Body shells were initially transported from Linwood, Scotland, while engines and transmissions came from Stoke. By 1976, full manufacturing transitioned to the Linwood plant.
From 1970 until 1975, Rootes marketed the model under the Hillman name. Following Rootes’ integration into Chrysler Europe, it was rebranded as the Chrysler Avenger between 1976 and 1978. After PSA Peugeot Citroën acquired the business, it was further renamed the Talbot Avenger from 1979 through 1981.
The Avenger spawned multiple internationally rebadged versions. Significant examples include the North American Plymouth Cricket (1971–1973), Chrysler Brazil’s Dodge 1800 (produced from 1971 to 1980) which included two-door variants and was later renamed Dodge Polara, as well as Volkswagen Argentina’s VW 1800.
Despite its straightforward design approach, the Avenger enjoyed notable achievements in motorsports. It secured victory at the 1971 Press-on-Regardless Rally (competing as Plymouth Cricket), won British Group 1 Rally Championships in both 1975 and 1976, captured several British Saloon Car Championships, and triumphed at New Zealand’s Heatway Rally in 1976.
The vehicle’s launch proved vital for Rootes’ success; by 1981, UK production figures reached 790,000 units. Although it maintained popularity throughout the 1970s, only around 260 examples remained operational in Britain by 2016.
1970: Hillman Avenger
Launched in February 1970, the Avenger was both the first and final model developed by Rootes following Chrysler’s acquisition in 1967. Its styling incorporated American-inspired "Coke Bottle" contours along the waistline combined with a semi-fastback rear profile, which was later extended to include a station wagon version.
Built with unibody construction, it featured a four-cylinder all-iron overhead valve engine offered in either 1250 or 1500 cc displacements. The rear suspension utilized a live axle supported by coil springs. The car received commendations for its handling dynamics and overall driving performance.
At launch, the lineup consisted of four-door saloons available in DL or Super trims equipped with either engine size, plus a GL variant fitted with the larger 1500 cc unit. The DL trim came with rubber mat flooring and a basic instrument panel; Super models added carpeting, armrests, dual horns, and reversing lights. The GL trim boasted four round headlamps, an internal bonnet release mechanism, two-speed windshield wipers, brushed nylon upholstery—a first for British cars—reclinable front seats, and upgraded instrumentation. To reduce costs initially, the Avenger badge appeared only on the curb side.
Both engine and gearbox were specifically engineered for this model. Remarkably, its plastic front grille measured four feet six inches wide and held the distinction of being Europe’s largest mass-produced plastic component at that time. Throughout the decade, sales remained consistent as it competed against rivals such as the Ford Escort and Vauxhall Viva. Chrysler also promoted it internationally under various names including the Plymouth Cricket in America—though this effort met with limited success.
Variations in Body and Trim
In October 1970, the Avenger GT was introduced, equipped with a twin-carburettor 1500 cc engine and available with either a four-speed manual or an optional three-speed automatic transmission (also offered on other 1500 variants). The GT trim was distinguished by its twin round headlights, door decals, and "dustbin lid" style wheel covers, which echoed design trends seen on contemporary Datsun and Toyota models.
A stripped-down fleet version debuted in February 1972, featuring minimal equipment and offered with either 1250 or 1500 cc engines—the latter available with an automatic gearbox. By October 1972, the GT trim was superseded by the GLS model, which added a vinyl roof and Rostyle sport wheels to its features.
March 1972 marked the arrival of five-door estate models in DL and Super trims, powered by both engine sizes and sharing specifications with their saloon counterparts. The estate versions were fitted with heavy-duty springs capable of supporting a load capacity of , compared to the saloon’s .
In March 1973, a two-door saloon variant was launched across all engine options and trim levels.
Throughout continental Europe, the Avenger was widely sold under the Sunbeam or Sunbeam Avenger names, with French markets adopting Sunbeam 1250/1500 designations initially, later updated to 1300/1600.
October 1973 brought engine enhancements: the 1250 cc unit was replaced by a 1300 cc engine, while the 1500 cc grew to 1600 cc. Most trim levels persisted except for the discontinuation of the basic fleet model. The automatic transmission was upgraded to a four-speed Borg Warner 45, replacing the earlier three-speed version. GL and GT trims were available with the new 1300 engine and two-door saloon body style.
1972: Hillman Avenger Tiger
Drawing inspiration from the Sunbeam Tiger, the Avenger Tiger originated as a promotional project. Under Des O'Dell's leadership at Chrysler Competitions Centre, modified Avenger Super four-door cars were transformed into Tigers, debuting in March 1972. The vehicle featured a tuned 1500 GT engine with an enhanced cylinder head, larger valves, twin Weber carburetors, and a compression ratio of 9.4:1, delivering at 6,100 rpm. Suspension components were improved, while brakes, rear axle, and gearbox were sourced directly from the GT model.
Standard equipment included a striking yellow ("Sundance") paint finish, bonnet bulge, rear spoiler, side stripes, and "Avenger Tiger" branding on the rear quarter panels.
Performance evaluations recorded acceleration from 0–60 mph in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of , surpassing competitors such as the Ford Escort Mexico, although it exhibited relatively high fuel consumption.
Approximately 200 first-generation Tigers were produced by Chrysler Competitions Centre.
In October 1972, Chrysler launched the Mark 2 Tiger—a more production-oriented version—based on an Avenger GL body with four round headlights. Mechanically similar but offering enhanced performance and better fuel efficiency, it replaced the bonnet bulge with a matte black bonnet and featured revised wheels and seating. Priced at £1,350, around 400 units were built. The color palette expanded to include red ("Wardance") alongside yellow ("Sundance"), both accented with black detailing.
1976–1979: Chrysler Avenger
September 1976 saw the Avenger rebranded as a Chrysler model accompanied by a thorough facelift that introduced a redesigned front end and dashboard inspired by the Chrysler Alpine. Rear saloons replaced their signature "hockey-stick" tail lamps with a continuous "light-bar" style; metal plates covered previous lamp locations. The fuel filler cap was relocated from the rear to the right side of the vehicle.
Available trims comprised LS, GL (marketed as 'Super' in select markets), and GLS—the latter exclusively paired with a high-compression 1.6 L engine.
From its initial release in 1970, Avenger body panels were manufactured at Linwood before being shipped to Ryton for final assembly alongside components for the Hillman Imp. Following the Imp’s production cessation in 1976, assembly of Avengers moved entirely to Linwood until UK production ended. Subsequently, Ryton concentrated on Simca-derived models such as the Chrysler Alpine and Talbot Solara.
1977: Launch of the Chrysler Sunbeam Hatchback
The Chrysler Sunbeam hatchback debuted in 1977, utilizing a truncated Avenger chassis to enter the supermini category. It incorporated the same doors as the two-door Avenger and initially came with three engine options: a 928 cc powerplant derived from the Hillman Imp, alongside 1300 and 1600 cc engines sourced from the Avenger. Subsequently, a sportier "Ti" variant equipped with the 1600 cc engine was introduced.
This model resurrected the Rootes brand name, which had recently been discontinued following the final Sunbeam model, the Rapier.
In 1979, Chrysler unveiled the Sunbeam Lotus at the Geneva Motor Show. Created in collaboration with Lotus for rallying purposes, it was powered by a 2200 cc Lotus engine. After PSA Peugeot's acquisition, the road-going version was released as the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus. Initial editions featured Lotus’ signature black and silver livery linked to tobacco sponsorship; later versions adopted a turquoise and silver color scheme.
1979–1981: Talbot Avenger Era
Following the downfall of Chrysler Europe in 1978 and PSA Peugeot Citroën’s takeover, the Avenger was rebranded under Talbot while production continued alongside the hatchback-exclusive Horizon. This strategy addressed ongoing demand for conventional saloon and estate models. Unlike newer Talbot vehicles such as the Horizon, the Avenger retained Chrysler’s "Pentastar" emblem because Chrysler maintained rights to this model after PSA acquired only Simca-derived Alpine and Horizon rights.
The Sunbeam underwent a subtle redesign in late 1980, featuring refreshed headlights and a grille adorned with Talbot’s round badge. Production ceased in mid-1981 when PSA shut down the Linwood factory, shifting UK manufacturing operations to Ryton. No direct successor replaced the Avenger; PSA’s nearest substitute was the Peugeot 305, while the slightly larger Talbot Solara—a saloon based on the Alpine/Simca 1307—had been introduced shortly before.
Chrysler preserved ownership of the "Avenger" trademark, which was later applied to the Dodge Avenger (2007–2014) and Jeep’s initial electric vehicle launched in Australia in 2024.
Global Manufacturing and Marketing
Across international markets, Chrysler distributed and occasionally assembled the Avenger through its worldwide subsidiaries. In the United States, it was marketed under the Plymouth nameplate. In South Africa, similar to the larger Hunter model assembled locally, Avenger units were equipped with Peugeot engines and badged as Dodges rather than Hillmans. New Zealand assembly utilized CKD kits, initially offering four-door versions followed by five-door estate variants.
United States Market
During the early 1970s, Chrysler sought to establish itself within North America’s small car segment to rival models like the Chevrolet Vega, Ford Pinto, and AMC Gremlin via its internal small car initiative known as Project R-429, which encountered significant delays.
Meanwhile, Chrysler had increased its stake in Simca to 77% by 1963 and acquired control of the Rootes Group by mid-1964. It marketed several Simca and Rootes products—including the Simca 1204 and Sunbeam Arrow—through a Simca-Rootes Division established in 1966. This division operated approximately 850 dealerships for four Simca models and around 400 dealers handling four Rootes models. Despite this extensive dealer network, sales performance remained weak. Consequently, by late 1969, Chrysler decided to distribute Rootes and Simca vehicles through its Chrysler-Plymouth Division.
Introduction
At the Coventry-based Ryton plant, a rebadged version of the Hillman Avenger was manufactured and exported to the U.S. and Canadian markets in 1971 under the name Plymouth Cricket, distributed through Plymouth dealerships. Initially, this model was available solely as a 4-door sedan, with a 5-door station wagon variant introduced for the MY 1972 lineup. Both the Cricket and the concurrently sold Dodge Colt served as temporary offerings until Chrysler developed a small car produced domestically.
A Plymouth press announcement dated June 30, 1970, revealed plans for the Cricket's official launch in November of that year, with the first batch of 280 units arriving in the U.S. on November 20, 1970. Sales officially commenced on January 20, 1971.
Differing from its Hillman predecessor named Avenger, the Cricket adopted a playful font style accompanied by a flower logo and employed the slogan “The Little Car That Can, Chirp, Chirp,” adopting a marketing tone reminiscent of the Volkswagen Beetle and AMC Gremlin campaigns.
Regulatory Compliance
To meet U.S. DOT requirements, Rootes adapted the Avenger for federal standards by installing side marker lamps, head restraints, and round headlights sourced from GL and GT versions. In 1972, the Cricket was further equipped with a seat-belt warning indicator and large rubber-tipped bumper guards to satisfy impact regulations.
Specifications
The Cricket maintained the Avenger’s 1500 cc overhead camshaft engine delivering 70 gross horsepower, with compression reduced from 9.2:1 to 8.0:1. It featured a fully synchronized four-speed manual gearbox, rack-and-pinion steering system, front disc brakes measuring 9.5 inches, rear drum brakes at 8 inches, radial tires, MacPherson strut front suspension, a four-link rigid rear axle supported by coil springs, and front anti-roll bars—all designed to simplify maintenance.
With a base price of $1915 in 1971, standard equipment included chair-height seating positions, pivoting front vent windows, fully operable rear roll-down windows, flow-through ventilation enhanced by rear pillar extractors, recessed exterior door handles, radial tires, power-assisted front disc brakes, child safety locks on rear doors, an approximate trunk volume of 12 cubic feet, full-width padded dashboard, two-speed ventilation fan with dashboard vents, impact-absorbing steering wheel design, electro-dip corrosion protection treatment, acrylic enamel paint available in nine colors, bolt-on front fenders for ease of repair, and a tight turning circle measuring 31.75 feet.
Available options encompassed a three-speed automatic transmission priced at $178, air conditioning for $338, transistorized AM radio with retractable fender-mounted antenna, whitewall tires, twin carburetor configurations, and a Decor Package. The Decor Package included dual horns; center console featuring a rear ashtray; glove box illumination and lock; cigarette lighter; oil pressure and alternator gauges; storage pockets on front doors; adjustable day/night rearview mirror; rear seat armrests; color-matched carpeting and window chrome trim; dual side paint stripes; bumper guards; wheel covers; courtesy lights with rear door switches; dimmable instrument panel lighting; and upgraded upholstery offered in five different colors. Starting in 1972, options expanded to include single carburetor with automatic choke alongside dual carburetors and air conditioning availability.
Wagon
On 23 February 1972, a press announcement revealed the introduction of a station wagon variant, which was officially unveiled at the 1972 Chicago Auto Show. This wagon was equipped with a 70bhp engine featuring an 8.5:1 compression ratio and dual carburetors. It offered three distinct rear seat arrangements: passenger seating, cargo loading, or an 80-inch sleeping configuration. Additional features included a counterbalanced tailgate at the rear, a liftover height of 24 inches, a cargo volume of 60 cubic feet, and an overall length that exceeded the sedan models by 4 inches. The spare tire was positioned beneath the rear cargo floor outside the vehicle and could be lowered using a supplied hex nut.
Annual updates
For the 1971 model year, an optional twin-carburetor setup boosted engine power by 15 horsepower, while the standard engine was upgraded with an automatic choke. The Cricket remained on sale for two complete model years—1971 and 1972. Although promotional materials existed for the 1973 model year, no new imports arrived after January 1, 1973; vehicles sold as 1973 models retained VINs from 1972.
Sales and reception
Despite attributes such as multi-link rear suspension, robust ride quality and handling, four-door practicality, standard radial tires, chair-level seating position, ventilation systems, safety provisions, and fuel efficiency comparable to competitors like the VW Beetle, Chevrolet Vega, Ford Pinto, and AMC Gremlin, the Cricket struggled with reliability problems and an inadequate dealer network. Over two years, sales reached roughly 41,000 units—approximately half of what was anticipated. In 1971 alone, Plymouth moved 27,682 Crickets compared to Chevrolet’s 275,000 Vegas and Ford’s 352,000 Pintos; sales further declined to 13,882 in 1972-73.
Facing slow market acceptance and fierce competition, Chrysler determined that redesigning the Cricket to comply with U.S. safety and emissions regulations for 1974 was not financially viable. Consequently, the model was discontinued following early 1973 clearance of remaining 1972 inventory—just before the fuel crisis increased demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. This reduction in Chrysler’s small-car offerings contributed to a historic $170 million loss by 1974.
Chrysler’s preparation for introducing the Cricket in the U.S. market was inadequate. Although extensive testing was reportedly conducted in Norway and Spain, the vehicle reached American consumers without comprehensive testing under U.S. road conditions and climates. Initial reviews were unfavorable: Car and Driver cited frequent mechanical failures; Consumer Reports recommended other vehicles such as the Plymouth Valiant instead. Key weaknesses included problems with the Stromberg carburetor system, Lucas electrical parts, corrosion issues linked to design decisions, and pricing that approached that of larger Plymouth Dart/Valiant models.
Further complicating matters was Chrysler’s decision to limit Cricket sales through its Simca-Rootes Division dealerships—established in 1966 for Rootes imports—on the basis that the Cricket was not a Rootes product. This led to legal challenges requiring Chrysler to distribute Crickets via these dealers under the Plymouth brand. Ultimately, Chrysler dissolved the Simca-Rootes Division and confined captive import sales exclusively to Plymouth dealerships. Notably, during model year 1971 both the Simca 1204 and Cricket were simultaneously offered through Plymouth dealers.
Simultaneously, Chrysler leadership publicly downplayed subcompact cars; Chairman Lynn Townsend remarked that such vehicles were "too small" for American buyers due to compromises in comfort. This viewpoint impeded acceptance of models like the Cricket and Colt. Chrysler did not make a significant commitment to the U.S. small car segment until later in 1978 with the introduction of the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon twins.
Canada
Alongside the United States, the Cricket was introduced to the Canadian market in late 1970 but was withdrawn by 1973 due to unsatisfactory sales and build issues. Despite this, the Cricket name continued when Chrysler Canada replaced the rebadged Avenger with the Mitsubishi Galant, which was marketed in the U.S. as the Dodge Colt. A sportier GT version was available under the name Plymouth Cricket Formula S.
By 1975, Chrysler Canada had rebranded the Plymouth Cricket as the Plymouth Colt, based on the Mitsubishi Lancer. This shift reflected Chrysler’s Canadian approach of offering Mitsubishi models under Dodge and Plymouth badges, such as the 1975 Lancer Celeste hatchback sold as the Dodge Arrow.
Denmark and Europe
In Denmark, available variants included:
- 1300 (offered as 2-door saloon, 4-door saloon, and 5-door estate)
- 1300 GL (same body configurations)
- 1600 GL (same body configurations)
- 1600 GLS (4-door saloon and 5-door estate)
- 1600 GT (available in both 2-door and 4-door saloon)
After their discontinuation in the UK in 1979, some two-door models were occasionally exported back there. The Hillman Avenger badge was not utilized; instead, vehicles bore the Sunbeam emblem along with engine size and trim level designations (for example, Sunbeam 1600 GLS). Across most European markets, except for the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain, the Sunbeam nameplate was employed.
Argentina
The Avenger was manufactured in Argentina from 1971 until 1990, initially branded as the Dodge 1500 (or Dodge 1500M when equipped with a 1.8L engine) by Chrysler Fevre Argentina until Volkswagen acquired the company in 1980. Production persisted under Volkswagen Argentina until 1986 and then continued through a partnership with Autolatina until 1989.
Production
Chrysler Fevre Argentina commenced production of the Dodge 1500 in August 1971. In 1974, a sportier "GT90" model was introduced featuring a tuned 1500 cc engine producing 90 HP, enhanced by a revised camshaft and dual carburettors. That year also saw the debut of the "SP" variant distinguished by its orange paint and availability with both automatic and manual transmissions.
A performance upgrade arrived in 1975 with a larger 1.8L engine marketed as the GT100, offered in unique color options and achieving notable success in motorsport events such as the Turismo Competencia 2000 championship.
By 1977, the Dodge 1500 GT-100 featured dual Stromberg carburettors and other performance parts, available exclusively in dark blue or black with sporty stripes. Driver Jorge Omar del Río won TC2000 championships driving this model from 1980 through 1982.
The first station wagon version, named Dodge 1500 Rural, was launched in 1978; it later came only with the 1.8L engine but retained the "1500" designation.
In early 1980, Volkswagen acquired Chrysler’s remaining shares of their Argentine subsidiary along with tooling for the Dodge 1500. Although Chrysler-branded vehicles were phased out, production of the Dodge continued under a "Serie W" designation. By 1982, it was renamed as the Volkswagen 1500, distinct from an earlier unrelated Volkswagen Type 3 model.
Under Volkswagen ownership, the vehicle received its final facelift featuring a contemporary sloped front grille and black plastic trim replacing previous chrome accents. Production ceased in 1990 after nearly twenty years and over 262,000 units sold. The model remained popular among taxi operators until regulations led to their phase-out by late 1998. It also enjoyed considerable success in early TC2000 racing championships between 1980 and 1982.
Technical Details
| Variant | Engine | Output@rpm | Torque@rpm | 0–100 km/h Acceleration | Top Speed | Gearbox | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 STD and SPL | 1498 cc I4 8-valve OHV | 72 hp at 5400 rpm | 122 Nm at 3200 rpm | 16 seconds | 143.7 km/h | 4-speed manual | 8.8 km/l |
| 1.5 SPL AT | 1498 cc I4 8-valve OHV | 72 hp at 5400 rpm | 122 Nm at 3200 rpm | 18 seconds | 143.7 km/h | 4-speed automatic | 8 km/l |
| 1.5 GT90 | 1498 cc I4 8-valve OHV | 90 hp at 5600 rpm | 135 Nm at 3800 rpm | 13.6 seconds | 156.6 km/h | 4-speed manual | 8 km/l |
| 1.8 M | 1798 cc I4 8-valve OHV | 92 hp at 4900 rpm | 160 Nm at 3400 rpm | 14 seconds | 157.5 km/h | 4-speed manual | 8.8 km/l |
| 1.8 GT100 | 1798 cc I4 8-valve OHV | 120 hp at 5300 rpm | 165 Nm at 4200 rpm | 11.5 seconds | 169.8 km/h | 4-speed manual | 9.6 km/l |
Brazil
Between 1973 and 1981, the Avenger was manufactured in Brazil as a two-door sedan, initially marketed as the Dodge 1800 to reflect its enlarged 1.8-liter engine. While sharing the fundamental design with other Avengers, it featured distinct styling from the A-pillar rearwards. Notable differences included larger bumpers, a grille with four headlights unlike the British and American versions, and traditional tail lights replacing the Hillman Avenger’s signature "hockeystick" design. The model was unveiled at the São Paulo Motor Show in November 1972.
In 1975, this model became the pioneering vehicle converted to run on alcohol fuel under Brazil’s sugar cane initiative.
The vehicle was renamed Dodge Polara in 1976, reviving a Chrysler name previously used in the United States and Argentina. A significant redesign arrived in 1978, incorporating the Chrysler Avenger’s front-end styling and dashboard, while preserving uniquely Brazilian bumpers and tail lights. The introduction of GLS and GL trims in 1980 brought Brazil’s first domestically produced cars equipped with standard automatic transmissions. A minor update was applied before production ceased in 1981 following Chrysler's withdrawal from the South American market.
After Chrysler's exit, Volkswagen took over assembly of the Avenger, branding later models as “Dodge 1500 made by Volkswagen Argentina,” identifiable by specific stickers or plates. In 1982, Volkswagen redesigned the car as the Volkswagen 1500, mirroring modifications implemented in Argentina.
New Zealand
From 1970 to 1980, Todd Motors distributed the Avenger in New Zealand as both four-door sedans and five-door wagons (introduced in 1975). Assembly occurred initially in Petone and subsequently in Porirua from 1974, where Todd's flexible production lines also handled a variety of models including Chrysler Australia, Mitsubishi, and Datsun vehicles.
The initial New Zealand Avenger closely resembled UK specifications but launched exclusively with a 'Super' trim featuring a single-carburettor 1.5 L engine paired with a manual transmission. In 1971, Todd’s introduced a distinctive sporty 'TC' variant equipped with twin carburettors, black interior trim, unique paintwork, and locally produced pressed aluminium wheel trims—loosely inspired by the UK GT model.
By 1973, the 'TC' was replaced by the more refined Avenger Alpine, based on the UK 'GL'. This version sported quad headlights, an upgraded dashboard, twin carburettors, a vinyl roof, and initially retained the 1.5 L engine before upgrading to a 1.6 L unit later on. Automatic transmissions became available alongside manuals for both Alpine and Super sedans starting that year. Responding to fuel shortages in 1975, Todd Motors expanded offerings to include smaller displacement variants such as a 1.3 L model and introduced a 1.6 L wagon.
In 1978, Todd’s updated the Avenger with a Simca-inspired front fascia and refreshed dashboard design while adding a premium GLS trim that replaced the Alpine nameplate; concurrently rebranding it as Chrysler Avenger. The lineup featured a base-level 1.3 GL sedan, a 1.6 LS wagon (marketed as Avenger Estate), and a range-topping 1.6 GLS sedan—all available with either manual or automatic gearboxes. The economical base model was favored by rental company Avis until production ended in 1980.
Contrasting with Europe—where Avengers were rebranded Talbots—New Zealand retained Chrysler badging through to the model’s discontinuation in 1980, recognizable by black grilles, body side moldings, window surrounds painted black, and steel wheels.
A van variant unique to New Zealand was offered from approximately 1975 to circumvent stringent hire purchase regulations during the oil crisis by classifying it as a light commercial vehicle. This version essentially consisted of a manual wagon modified with flat rear flooring and fixed rear windows.
From its introduction in New Zealand in 1973 onward, all Avengers were equipped with metric instrumentation.
Alongside British imports such as Vauxhall Viva, Victor, Chevette series and Austin Allegro, Maxi, and Leyland Princess—which were sold locally but not assembled—Avenger maintained a distinctive position within New Zealand’s market landscape. Initially considered as an Australian Hunter replacement by Chrysler Australia, economic considerations led to selection of the Mitsubishi Galant (marketed locally as Chrysler Galant) instead. In New Zealand however, Avenger was sold concurrently with both Hunter and Mitsubishi Galant coupe (from 1972 to ’77), while assembly of smaller Mitsubishi Lancer models began locally from 1975 onward.
South Africa
In South Africa, the Avenger was marketed and assembled as the Dodge Avenger, featuring a domestically produced 1.6 L Peugeot engine, identical to that used in the Peugeot 404, to comply with local content requirements. This model was available from 1975 until 1976 and was later rebranded under the Chrysler name following the integration of Chrysler ZA into Sigma Motor Corporation. Production was discontinued shortly afterward to allocate manufacturing capacity for the Mazda 323.
Iran
Between 1978 and 1980, Iran Khodro Co. manufactured a two-door version known as the Hillman Avenger, equipped with the Hunter engine found in the locally produced Paykan. Additionally, the four-door Avenger was briefly imported starting in 1975.
Uruguay
Uruguay saw production of a coupe utility variant based on the Avenger, named the Dodge 1500 Pickup. However, due to structural weaknesses that led to vehicle failures, this model struggled to maintain market acceptance.