Posts Tagged ‘french’

R8, Version Depardieu – 1967 and 1969 Renault R10

April 17, 2014

Renault’s small cars have always been an interesting counterpoint to the ubiquitous VW Beetle and its Type 3 and 4 siblings. Running a rear engine with a similar power output from smaller displacement, it had the advantages of an inline four, primarily the greater effectiveness of a conventional heating system that didn’t threaten to asphyxiate its passengers when in less than perfect condition. While they also benefited from French ride comfort, the engines were not quite as durable, and the styling of the later rear-engine Renaults, while much more modern than VW’s offerings, was not exactly beautiful. You can find the first of two, this 1967 Renault R10, for sale for $2800 in Long Beach, CA.

1967 Renault R10 left front

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Bien Rare – 1970 Peugeot 504 Berline

April 16, 2014

As you’ve seen in previous features, and in spite of its obscurity here in North America, the Peugeot 504 should be awe-inspiring to you since its longevity is equivalent to Mercedes W123 and Volvo 140 and 240-series cars. What’s more is, they managed to design in that French comfort unparalleled by any other manufacturer in its class. Sure, Volvos have great seats, and those firm Mercedes seats will hold you for hours without causing discomfort, but neither of those can truly coddle you while still providing excellent handling. You can find this 1970 Peugeot 504 sedan for sale for $2800 in North Hollywood, CA.

1970 Peugeot 504 front

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Quattre Quattre – 1975 Renault 6 Sinpar AWD

March 26, 2014

Renault had a rather hard time in the United States, after having a hit (and subsequent failure) with the Dauphine. Their reputation stuck with them, and even now, they only have a limited enthusiast following in North America. In part this can be blamed on them bringing only the most mainstream versions of their products here, when the rest of the world got things like the R5 Turbo, various Alpines, and other vehicles that would have engendered some enthusiasm. That’s disregarding some neat cars like the GTA and R17 Gordini, but these sold in such limited numbers (and in the case of Renault’s coupes, had polarizing designs) they couldn’t have much of an impact on American enthusiasts. However, Renault (as in the case of all French manufacturers) sold some truly unusual, innovative cars, but that cannot be said for their R6. Built from 1968 to 1980, and derived from the R4 as the Citroen Dyane was from the 2CV, they took a reasonably interesting car and turned it into a dowdy box. You can find this 1975 Renault 6 Sinpar AWD for sale for €3000 (about $4100 today) in Menden, Germany.

1975 Renault 6 Sinpar AWD left front

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