Renault is conducting an unprecedented sale of over 100 vehicles from its private collection, including concept cars, racing machines, and prototypes, in an auction set for December 7th near Paris. This event marks a significant shift in how automakers manage their history, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own pieces of automotive legacy.
A Museum Up for Sale
The auction, curated by Artcurial Motorcars, presents a spectrum of Renault’s past. From a replica of the 1898 Type A to a fully restored 1901 Type D and 1903 Type G double phaeton, early automotive history is well represented. However, the sale’s true draw lies in its more recent and unusual offerings.
Eccentric Creations and Prototypes
Among the most striking items are the six-wheel pickup based on a 2001 Renault Clio II, built by factory apprentices, and an armored 1985 Renault 25 V6 Limousine. The 1986 Renault 21 “Lévy and Goliath” movie car, with its twelve doors, is another standout. The auction also includes EV conversions of classic Renault models, alongside rare Alpines like the GTA V6 Turbo and A610 Evolution Le Mans.
Concept Cars and Future Visions
Renault is also selling a collection of concept cars from the 2000s, priced between €3,000 and €6,000. While non-road legal, these vehicles represent the design experiments that shaped future production models. The lineup includes LCV-based concepts like the 2002 Kango Break-Up and 2004 Trafic Deck-Up, showcasing Renault’s adventurous side. Many later evolved into production vehicles, such as the Modus, Clio III, Twingo II, and Alaskan pickup.
Racing Heritage on Display
For motorsport fans, the auction features a remarkable array of rally cars, endurance racers, and 20 Formula 1 single-seaters. Highlights include the 1970s Le Mans-winning Alpine A442 and the 1990s Laguna BTCC car. The undisputed star is the 1997 Williams-Renault FW19, the car that secured Jacques Villeneuve’s championship title, estimated to sell for €800,000 to €1,200,000.
Why Now?
Renault’s decision to sell is part of a broader effort to consolidate its heritage division. The automaker plans to open a new exhibition center in Flins-sur-Seine by 2027, housing at least one example of every vehicle produced since 1898. This sale streamlines the collection, offering enthusiasts a unique chance to acquire pieces of automotive history while ensuring Renault’s legacy remains intact.
The auction will include 100 vehicles and 100 automobilia lots, available for viewing from December 4th before the sale on December 7th. The complete catalog is available on the auction’s official site.
