Paykan Deluxe: The Luxurious 1970s Model of Iran









The Paykan Deluxe, a standout model from the 1970s, brought a touch of luxury to Iran’s roads, elevating the basic Paykan Standard into a more refined family sedan. Produced by Iran Khodro (formerly Iran National), this variant was built on the British Hillman Hunter platform, blending affordability with upscale features. For global car enthusiasts, the Paykan Deluxe represents Iran’s ambition to merge simplicity with sophistication during its economic boom. In this post, we dive into its history, key specifications, and what set it apart from the Standard model, based on historical data from reliable sources like Wikipedia and automotive archives.

History of the Paykan Deluxe

Introduced in the early 1970s, the Paykan Deluxe emerged as Iran Khodro localized its Paykan production, which began in 1967 and continued until 2005. Between 1971 and 1972, the company offered six Paykan variants: Deluxe, Pickup, Standard, GT, Taxi, and Automatic. Positioned between the no-frills Standard and the sportier GT, the Deluxe targeted middle-class families seeking a slightly more stylish ride.

A major redesign in 1977, led by British designer Roy Axe, incorporated elements from the Chrysler Alpine, giving the Paykan Deluxe a modernized look with updated headlights and taillights. Late in the decade, after Chrysler Europe was acquired by PSA Peugeot Citroën in 1978, the original Rootes engines were phased out in favor of Peugeot 504 engines. The Deluxe was part of the over 2.3 million Paykans produced, cementing its place in Iran’s automotive legacy.

Differences Between Paykan Deluxe and Standard


The Paykan Deluxe stood out from the utilitarian Standard with several upgrades designed to enhance comfort and appeal. Here’s a detailed comparison based on historical records:

  • Exterior Design: The Deluxe featured more chrome accents, including trim on the doors, bumpers, and grille, adding a premium touch. The 1977 facelift gave it sharper, square-shaped headlights and taillights, while the Standard retained a simpler, less adorned look with minimal chrome, prioritizing function over flair.

  • Interior Design: The Deluxe boasted an upgraded dashboard with higher-quality materials and often included a radio as a standard feature. Its seats, made from better vinyl or fabric, offered improved comfort, and the cabin felt more spacious. The Standard, by contrast, had a basic dashboard and no extras, focusing solely on practicality.

  • Engine and Performance: Both models shared the same base 1.7-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine (70–80 horsepower), but the Deluxe sometimes offered a 1.6-liter alloy-headed variant for slightly better efficiency. A brake servo system was standard in the Deluxe, improving braking smoothness, while the Standard might lack this feature. Fuel economy (10–12 liters per 100 km) and top speed (150–160 km/h) were similar, but the Deluxe’s smoother gearbox enhanced the driving experience.

  • Other Distinctions: The Deluxe came in a wider range of colors, like light blue or cream, compared to the Standard’s basic palette. Its suspension and dampers were also refined for a more comfortable ride. Priced 20–30% higher than the Standard (exact figures from the 1970s are unavailable but estimated based on market trends), the Deluxe appealed to those wanting a step up without reaching GT territory.

These differences made the Paykan Deluxe a hit for drivers seeking a blend of luxury and reliability.

Paykan Deluxe Technical Specifications

  • Engine: 1.6–1.7-liter 4-cylinder gasoline, 70–80 horsepower, 120–130 Nm torque (later upgraded to Peugeot 504 engines).
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual (optional 3-speed automatic in some units).
  • Dimensions: Length: 4,343 mm; Width: 1,600 mm; Height: 1,422 mm; Wheelbase: 2,489 mm; Weight: Approximately 953 kg.
  • Performance: 0–100 km/h in 15–18 seconds; Fuel economy: 10–12 liters per 100 km.
  • Features: Drum brakes, independent front MacPherson strut suspension, live rear axle with leaf 
  • springs, no modern safety features like airbags or ABS, but built for durability.




Cultural and Economic Significance

The Paykan Deluxe played a key role in Iran’s 1970s automotive growth, supporting exports to neighbors like Iraq. Popular with taxi drivers and families wanting a step up, it became a cultural icon, often featured in Iranian films. Today, vintage Deluxe models are preserved as classics, evoking nostalgia. For a global audience, it’s akin to a luxurious twist on a European classic adapted for Middle Eastern use.

If you’re a fan of vintage cars, the Paykan Deluxe offers a unique look at how local innovation shaped a British design. Have you seen one in action or restored one yourself?

Sources: Wikipedia (Paykan entry), AROnline (Iran Khodro history), and 1970s automotive records.

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