Retromobile is indisputably Europe’s greatest gathering of the year for classic car aficionados. With a long and illustrious history in the industry, Renault presented vehicles whose elegance – ever a hallmark of the brand – is unmistakably French. From pre-war models to modern-day concept cars, “French design” was very much in evidence at the Porte de Versailles during the five-day event.
Renault Classic chose Retromobile 2017 for the first public appearance of its latest acquisition. A shooting star bearing chipped paintwork and weathered by time, this model is none other than an exceedingly rare Viva Grand Sport coupé from 1939. A true gem, it is completely original, having never undergone any restoration. In perfect working order, despite not having moved for almost half a century, this car has covered less than 23,000 kilometres.
As the very last edition of the Viva Grand Sport, this luxury model boasted a dynamic look and packed a serious punch, justifiably earning it the adulation of the media at the time of its launch.
Renault Floride, 1961
FLORIDE, 1961
In the 1960s, a collaborative effort with the coachbuilders Ghia and Frau resulted in the Renault Floride. Elegant and in tune with its times, the Floride was quick to appeal to the stars of the day, notably Brigitte Bardot, who became the “face” of the model. Designed to please women in particular, it featured bright colours, matching interiors and a refinement that made it a decidedly special car.
Renault 5 Turbo, 1982
5 TURBO, 1982
A true sports car, the Renault 5 Turbo amazed with more than performance alone. The legendary 1980s pocket rocket also marked its era through its elegant styling, sculpted for performance but also for the pleasure of all motorists. The interior design was a further standout feature with an originally styled dashboard and steering wheel, together with upholstery in extremely daring colour combinations!
Renault Roadster Laguna, 1990
ROADSTER LAGUNA, 1990
Bubbling over with creativity and dedicated to driving pleasure and at-the-wheel thrills, the Roadster Laguna was an uncompromising concept car. The windscreen-free design harks back to cars from the past in which our great-grandparents donned fur coats to protect against the cold and wind. The concept car’s athletic design made quite a mark, winning the Car Design Award in 1991.
Renault Initiale, 1995
INITIALE, 1995
Breaking with the “biodesign” cues in favour at the time, the Initiale concept car marked Renault’s return to structured styling based on controlled surfaces that is elegant and high-end at the same time. The vehicle’s bold shape, inspired by pre-war car design, is an homage to the past and the coachbuilder trade. Initiale is a wholly new take on the high-end automobile in which omnipresent, thoroughly domesticated technology still remains discreet. Luxury is expressed through refinement, technicity through simplicity, and inventiveness through respect for tradition.
