Paykan: History and Models of Iran’s Iconic Classic Car
Paykan: History and Models of Iran’s Iconic Classic Car The Paykan, Iran’s legendary car, ruled the roads from the 1960s to the early 2000s, becoming more than just a vehicle—it’s a cultural icon. For global car enthusiasts, the Iranian Paykan car offers a fascinating glimpse into a classic vehicle that shaped the Middle East’s automotive landscape. Rooted in British design but uniquely Iranian, the Paykan tells a story of resilience, affordability, and nostalgia. In this post, we explore the Paykan’s history, its various models, technical specs, and why it remains a beloved piece of Iran’s automotive heritage. History of the Paykan: From Britain to Iran’s Heart The Paykan began as the Hillman Hunter , designed by the British Rootes Group in the 1960s. In 1966, Iran National (later renamed Iran Khodro, or IKCO) signed a deal to assemble this car in Iran. The first Paykan rolled off the production line in 1967, quickly earning the title of Iran’s "national car." Its affor...