Renault is set to auction off an extraordinary collection of vehicles from its private heritage vault on December 7, 2023, near Paris. This auction, organized by Artcurial Motorcars, features a diverse lineup that includes early 1900s cars, prototypes, and Formula 1 racers, providing a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Unveiling a Treasure Trove of Automotive History
The auction will showcase over 100 vehicles, alongside an additional 100 lots of automobilia. Attendees will have the chance to view these unique items from December 4, leading up to the main event. Among the standout pieces is a replica of the 1898 Type A, a freshly restored 1901 Type D, and a double phaeton from 1903. These historical vehicles highlight Renault’s long-standing legacy in automotive innovation.
Fast forward to the 1980s, where visitors can find a 1983 Renault 5 and a mid-engined Maxi 5 Turbo development prototype from the same year. One particularly intriguing item is a six-wheel pickup based on the 2001 Renault Clio II, crafted by factory apprentices. This unique creation features a 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine, albeit limited to low speeds.
The auction also includes a range of concept vehicles, many of which date back to the 2000s. These models, while visually striking, cannot be legally registered for road use. They are expected to fetch between €3,000 and €6,000, making them appealing to collectors looking to own a piece of automotive art.
Rare Racing and Concept Vehicles Available
Motorsport enthusiasts will find a wealth of racing cars, including numerous Formula 1 single-seaters. Highlights of the collection include the Le Mans-winning Alpine A442 from the 1970s and the Laguna BTCC car from the 1990s. The auction’s star attraction is the 1997 Williams-Renault FW19, which propelled driver Jacques Villeneuve to his championship title. It is anticipated to sell for between €800,000 and €1,200,000.
In addition to F1 cars, the auction features a variety of rally cars and endurance racers. For those interested in static display pieces, options include the widebody 1996 Megane Maxi and the Megane III V6 Trophy, with spare body panels available at a fraction of the cost of new tires.
Renault is also parting with electric vehicle conversions of classic models, including the original R5, R4, Twingo, and Clio. Among these are the 2009 Kangoo Be Bop van and the Fluence sedan, both bearing the now-retired Z.E. badge, showcasing Renault’s commitment to zero-emission technology.
Renault’s decision to auction these vehicles is part of a larger strategy to reorganize its heritage division. The automaker is aiming to preserve 600 landmark vehicles, which will form the foundation of a new exhibition center in Flins-sur-Seine, set to open in 2027. As part of this effort, Renault plans to retain at least one example of every vehicle produced since 1898 while selling duplicates to streamline its collection.
This auction presents a unique chance to acquire a piece of Renault’s storied history, with a wide range of vehicles available for both passionate collectors and casual enthusiasts. For more detailed information, including a full list of cars and memorabilia, interested parties can visit the auction’s official website.
