Lot 102: 1959 Renault 4CV

The Renault 4CV was an automobile produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 1946 to 1961. An economical "people's car" inspired by the Volkswagen Beetle, it was the first French car to sell over a million.The 4CV was originally conceived and designed covertly by Renault engineers during the German occupation of France during World War II, when the manufacturer was under strict orders to design and produce only commercial and military vehicles. A design team led by Fernand Picard, Charles-Edmond Serre and Jean-Auguste Riolfo envisioned a small, economical car (similar to the Volkswagen Beetle) suitable for the economically difficult years which would inevitably follow the war. The first prototype was completed in 1942 and two more prototypes were produced in the following three years, with the 4CV ultimately presented to the public and media at the 1946 Paris Motor Show.The present owner purchased the car 5 years ago after a very extensive search from a french Renault dealership and brought the car over to the UK. Since that time the car has been used regulary for many trips abroad without any mechanical problems. Although the car has been resprayed it has never been restored or welded underneath making it one of the most original 4CV's availible. The engine has had a desirable upgrade from 750cc to 850cc making the car much more user friendly on longer drives. Presented in cream with a black and blue interior and comes complete with a V5, selection of old MoT's and driver handbook. With no more than 60 examples in the UK the car represents a desirable piece of french history.