In the annals of automotive history, certain models transcend the limitations of their era and become timeless symbols of innovation, performance, and sheer driving pleasure. The 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300 stands as a testament to this phenomenon, capturing the hearts of car enthusiasts across generations with its remarkable blend of elegance, agility, and spirited performance.
A Historical Glimpse: The 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300
The early 1970s marked a pivotal era in the automotive world. The oil crisis of 1973 prompted a shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient cars, altering the landscape of vehicle design and manufacturing. Amidst this backdrop, the Renault Alpine A110 1300 emerged as a beacon of both innovation and driving enjoyment.
Designed and manufactured by the French company Alpine, the A110 was a purpose-built rally car that also excelled on the open road. The 1972 model year introduced the 1300 variant, which solidified the A110's reputation as a high-performance sports car that could hold its own on the racetrack and winding mountain passes alike.
Design that Defies Time
The design of the 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300 is a blend of sleek lines, functional aerodynamics, and a compact form factor. With its distinctive rear-engined layout, the A110 boasted a body that was remarkably lightweight, allowing it to dance through corners with exceptional agility. The iconic double-bubble roof, a hallmark of the A110's design, not only provided enhanced headroom for the driver and passenger but also contributed to the car's aerodynamic efficiency.
The A110's minimalist interior was focused on the driver, with a clear emphasis on providing essential information and controls within easy reach. The driving position was low-slung, offering a direct connection to the road and imbuing the driving experience with a sense of intimacy.
Performance and Driving Pleasure
Beneath the rear decklid of the 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300 lay a 1.3-liter inline-four engine, producing around 70 horsepower. While this may not sound impressive by today's standards, the A110's lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive setup meant that it could accelerate briskly and handle corners with remarkable finesse. The car's balanced weight distribution and nimble chassis translated into an exhilarating driving experience that endeared it to both racers and enthusiasts.
The A110's successes on the rally circuit further solidified its performance credentials. The model secured victory in the inaugural World Rally Championship in 1973, showcasing its remarkable adaptability and resilience in some of the world's most challenging driving conditions.
Enduring Legacy and Collector's Dream
As time has passed, the 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300 has transcended its original context to become a true icon in the automotive world. Its rarity, coupled with its racing pedigree and distinctive design, has made it a highly sought-after collector's item. Enthusiasts who manage to acquire an A110 often find themselves not just in possession of a car, but a piece of history that evokes a sense of nostalgia and admiration for a bygone era of motoring.
In Conclusion
The 1972 Renault Alpine A110 1300 is more than just a car; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted, driver-centric design. Its ability to blend performance, aesthetics, and driving pleasure continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts and historians alike. In a world of modern engineering marvels, the A110 stands as a reminder that the spirit of innovation and joy that defined the 1970s still resonates strongly in the hearts of those who appreciate the art of driving.
Exceptionally well preserved original car was imported from Portugal to Czechia after more than forty years since the first Portuguese delivery in July 2014. The car has never raced - standard version. Decorative livery on special order (cost of around 2.400 EUR) according to history. It comes also with the original 52-year old tyres. In original Bleu Alpine paint. The car was completely serviced, brakes, fluids, oils, filters, axle cuffs, steering pins, suspension dampers, everything done when delivered from Portugal.
The Alpine was driven for about 200 kilometer per year for the period 2014-2023, otherwise the car stood in a warm garage.
Everything on the car works, regularly serviced. The car is in fully running condition. The car was fully serviced six months ago. Oils, fluids, filters, everything changed.
Production date | 24.02.1972 |
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Body Type | Coupe |
Engine | 1.289 ccm, 69 PS, I4 |
transmission | Manual |
Steering | Left Hand Drive |
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Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
Color - exterior | Bleu Alpine |
Color - interior | Black |
Miles/Kilometers shown | 77.734 km |
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Chassis / VIN | BA0157 |
Location - Country | Czechia |
Location - City | Brno |
2-door coupe body type; RWD (rear-wheel drive), manual 4-speed gearbox; gasoline (petrol) engine with displacement: 1289 cm3, advertised power: 51 kW / 68 hp / 69 PS (DIN SAE), torque: 100.5 Nm; characteristic dimensions: outside length: 3850 mm, width: 1520 mm, wheelbase: 2100 mm; reference weights: base curb weight: 725 kg; top speed: 180 km/h (112 mph) (declared by factory); accelerations: 0-60 mph 10 s; 0-100 km/h 11 s
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