1951 Renault 4CV Grand Luxe Saloon
Registration no. VXS 427
Chassis no. 1582033
*Mille Miglia participant in 1989
*Monte Pellegrino and Vernasca Silver Flag participant in 2015
*UK registered since 2016

Footnotes:
Conceived in secret during wartime, the 4CV had been influenced by the most advanced small car of the pre-war period: the FIAT 500 Topolino. In production from 1946, the Renault 4CV improved on its Italian rival's specification by virtue of its four-door four-seat body, all-independent suspension and overhead-valve engine, though the FIAT would soon gain the latter. The 4CV's rear engine also set it apart from the FIAT, of course, and this layout would characterise all Renault's mainstream passenger cars until the 1960s. Initially of 760cc (it was downsized to 747cc in 1950) the four-cylinder engine produced between 19-22bhp and drove via a three-speed gearbox. The 4CV's top speed was around 100km/h (62mph) but for those who wanted more excitement there was a high-performance version - the R1052 Sport. 4CV production had totalled over one million units by the time the model was withdrawn in 1961, the car's outstanding commercial success providing the foundation for Renault's post-war resurgence.

This very appealing 4CV is full of impish character. In 1989, the Renault successfully completed the Italian Mille Miglia, finishing in a highly creditable 41st place out of a field of 315 starters. This is confirmed and documented in a book on the subject, which is included with the car. Much more recently (in 2015), it competed in the Italian Monte Pellegrino and the Vernasca Silver Flag rallies. The car is described as wonderfully sound throughout, and the underside needs to be seen to be believed, being very sound and clean. The apparent splits in the seats are in fact in the fitted covers, which could easily be removed to reveal what appears to be the original cloth upholstery underneath, seemingly in good condition. 'VXS 427' is UK registered (since 2016) and comes with Italian registration papers and an MoT valid until May 2022. Running very sweetly, this charming little Renault 4CV represents a relatively affordable entry into the Mille Miglia and other such events.
Lot to be sold without reserve.