Talbot
Talbot, a name steeped in both racing glory and eventual decline, represents a fascinating chapter in automotive history. Born from the British arm of the French Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq merger, the marque initially thrived, particularly in the pre-war era. Their sporty saloons and Grand Prix racers, like the iconic Lago-Talbot, earned significant motorsport success, showcasing engineering prowess.
Post-war, the brand struggled. Ownership shifted, and models became increasingly rebadged versions of other manufacturers' offerings. The Talbot name, once synonymous with performance, was gradually diluted. By the 1980s, under Peugeot's stewardship, Talbot's final models, like the Horizon and Tagora, were ultimately rebranded Peugeots, marking the definitive end of a once-proud marque. Talbot's story is a cautionary tale of ambition, success, and the harsh realities of a changing automotive landscape.