Renault is set to auction an extraordinary collection of vehicles from its heritage vault, providing enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. The auction, organized by Artcurial Motorcars, will take place on December 7, 2023, just outside Paris. The lineup features an impressive array of cars that span over a century, from late 19th-century replicas to innovative concepts and racing machines.
The auction not only marks a rare public display of Renault’s hidden treasures but also serves as part of a strategy to streamline the company’s heritage division. Renault plans to preserve a collection of 600 landmark vehicles for a future exhibition center in Flins-sur-Seine, which is scheduled to open in 2027. This decision to sell duplicates ensures that at least one example of every vehicle produced since 1898 remains in its possession.
Highlights of the Auction Collection
Among the standout items available for bidding is a replica of the 1898 Type A, a freshly restored 1901 Type D, and a 1903 Type G double phaeton. These early models reflect Renault’s rich history and evolution over the years. Fast forward to the 1980s, the auction will also feature the 1983 Renault 5 and a mid-engined development prototype, the Maxi 5 Turbo.
One particularly intriguing vehicle is a six-wheel pickup based on the 2001 Renault Clio II, originally built by factory apprentices. Motivated by a 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine, this unique vehicle showcases the creativity within Renault’s production process, despite being limited to low speeds. Other notable cars include an armored 1985 Renault 25 V6 Limousine and the twelve-door 1986 Renault 21 used in the film “Lévy and Goliath.”
The auction also includes electric vehicle conversions of models such as the original R5, R4, Twingo, and Clio, alongside special Alpine editions like the GTA V6 Turbo from 1988.
A Unique Selection of Concepts and Race Cars
Renault’s collection of concept cars is particularly noteworthy, with many dating back to the 2000s and expected to garner bids ranging from €3,000 to €6,000. Although these concepts cannot be registered for road use, they offer a fascinating look at design innovations. Among these are the 2002 Kango Break-Up, designed for adventure, and the 2004 Trafic Deck-Up, which features increased ground clearance and an all-wheel-drive system.
The auction will also appeal to motorsport fans, featuring a rich array of rally cars and endurance racers, including no fewer than 20 Formula 1 single-seaters. Notable items include the Alpine A442, which won at Le Mans in the 1970s, and the Laguna BTCC car from the 1990s.
The highlight of the Formula 1 section is the 1997 Williams-Renault FW19, the very car driven by Jacques Villeneuve to secure the championship title. This iconic vehicle is expected to fetch between €800,000 and €1,200,000. Older Renault-powered single-seaters from the 1980s are valued between €200,000 and €800,000, while display models can be acquired for around €20,000 to €30,000.
Renault’s decision to auction these vehicles not only offers collectors a chance to own rare pieces of automotive history but also aligns with the company’s strategic efforts to maintain a focused and meaningful heritage collection.
With a total of 100 vehicles and another 100 lots of automobilia on offer, the auction promises to be a historic event for car enthusiasts. The vehicles will be on display from December 4 before going under the hammer three days later. Those interested in the full list of items can find more information on the auction’s official website.
