Citroën Visa Chrono (1984) – A French hot hatch with a racing heart

Taking a closer look at this Citroën The Visa Chrono immediately shows that it is different from the average Visa models. Where the standard Visa already offers a surprisingly functional design, the Chrono transforms this model into an iconic hot hatch. Its short, sloping nose, sloping windscreen and robust rear exude a combination of simplicity and aggression. This example is pure white, with the striking striping in national colours – a nod to both France and the Netherlands.

Developed as a homologation model for rallying, the Visa Chrono is a rare piece of motorsport history. This is exactly what Ben, as a passionate Citroën-lover, so appealing.

---

History of the Citroën Visa Chrono

De Citroën Visa Chrono was introduced in March 1982 as a homologation sport version of the Visa Trophée, designed to Citroëns participation in Group B rallies. At least 200 Trophées were required for homologation. After this exclusive series was produced, Citroën the Chrono as a more accessible version, of which a total of approximately 1000 copies have been built.

The Chrono combined the technical basis of the Visa with rally technology. It was equipped with a 1.4-liter engine which, thanks to double Weber carburetors, approximately 93 hp delivered – impressive for a car of only 840 kgThe model had a top speed of about 185 km / h, which made it a serious competitor in the hot hatch segment.

In order to maintain a link with the rally world, the Chrono was fitted with modifications such as wider wheel arches, rivets on the mudguards and rally striping at coachbuilder Heuliez in France. The spartan version with bucket seats and a Jaeger dashboard emphasised the sporty nature of the car.

---

Ben's personal story

Ben's love for the Visa Chrono began in 1983, during the Hellendoornrally. He vividly remembers how he and his grandfather went to Citroën-dealer Rijnsburger in Nijverdal, where the rally team was lined up with the Visa Trophée and a brand new second car. That moment made a lasting impression.

Years later, when Ben was driving a sporty Visa 14S with the characteristic Maaskant/Oosterbaan striping, he got a tip from a neighbor: “I know someone with one of those things.” It turned out to be an original Citroën Visa Chrono. After short negotiations, Ben became the proud owner. This began a restoration project that would take almost ten years.

---

Restoration of the Citroën Visa Chrono: A journey of passion and precision

The restoration of Ben’s Visa Chrono was a process of love and dedication. The car was completely disassembled, with each part meticulously restored or replaced. The bodywork hung on a spit for months and was repainted – even the underside received the same care as the top.

The engine was completely rebuilt, subframes were blasted and painted, and even small details such as the color of the head bolts and the red stitching in the blue upholstery were restored. The result is a car that is not only technically in top condition, but also visually fits in perfectly with the original design.

Due to their rally history, many Visa Chronos have been modified over the years, making original examples rare today. Ben used parts from five donor cars to restore his Chrono to its original condition.

---

Technology and driving experience

De Citroën The Visa Chrono was a technical gem in its day. The use of double Weber carburetors ensured a direct and lively throttle response, while the manual five-speed gearbox fully involved the driver in the driving. The wide tires and sporty suspension made it a pleasure to steer on winding roads.

For Ben, the driving experience is a journey back in time. “Every drive is like driving a rally,” he says. “The gear shifting, the steering, the raw mechanics – you don’t get that feeling in modern cars anymore.”

---

Social and historical significance

Ben's Chrono is more than a car; it's a family member. He warned his wife about the "Visa Rally Virus" (VRV) on their first date, and now even their youngest daughter is infected with the same passion. For the whole family, Citroën a lifelong love, especially the models from the Group B period.

The Chrono is now used for fun rides and events, but Ben avoids dirt roads or rain to keep the car in top condition. “It’s a mild addiction,” he admits. “But also a way to preserve mobile heritage.”

---

Interesting facts about the Citroën Visa Chrono

1. Production number: Approximately 1.000 copies, of which only a limited number still exist.
2. Homologation: Developed to Citroëns to support participation in Group B rallies.
3. Unique striping: The export models were given colours that matched the national flags of their sales markets.
4. Performance: The 1.4-liter engine with twin carburetors delivered 93 hp, making it exceptionally fast for a car in its class.
5. Special interior: The Jaeger dashboard and bucket seats were completely focused on functionality and performance.

---

Passing on heritage

For Ben, the Chrono is not just a car, but a means to convey stories and passion. At every stop, he is approached by interested parties who want to know what it is and what the story behind it is. “That spontaneous interest is a bonus,” he says. “Driving this car is tangible history.”

With his careful restoration, passion and attention to detail, Ben contributes to the preservation of a unique piece Citroën-heritage. That makes his Chrono not only a special car, but also a time machine that keeps history alive.

(The article continues below with the photos.)