1976 Renault Alpine A310

1971 saw the launch of the four cylinder Alpine A310 at the Geneva Motor Show. Alpine had been an independent company based in Dieppe and later became a subsidiary of Renault themselves. This 2+2 coupe was designed to reach a wider audience than the A110 Berlinette. The basis of the A310 was the traditional, but stronger, Alpine tubular steel backbone chassis , clothed in a strong but light fibreglass shell and driven by a rear mounted engine. The car was initially powered by a tuned 17TS/Gordini four-cylinder engine with 2 twin choke Weber 45 DCOE carburettors. The maximum power was 125 hp. Early cars can be easily recognised by their almost continuous headlamp glasses across the front of the car.

In 1976 the A310 was restyled by Robert Opron and fitted with the newly-developed and more powerful 90 degree 2664 cc V6 PRV engine. This new engine made it possible for the A310 to get on terms with cars of the same standing and lifted the car into the lower echelons of the so called 'super-car' league, where until now Porsche had been the dominant player. The engine was still mounted longitudinally in the rear, driving the wheels through a manual 5 speed gearbox. With 149 bhp on tap, the A310 V6 was Renault's performance flagship capable of 220 km/h (137 mph) and (at the time) impressive acceleration. Despite the tail-heavy weight distribution the handling was safe and rewarding. The A310 had great success in French motorsport as a Group 4 car. In 1977 Guy Frequelin won the French Rally championship in an Alpine A310-V6. Production ended in 1984.

Having covered a believed genuine 64,831 kilometres from new, this Alpine is presented with very good paintwork. We believe the car was repainted in recent years but the shut lines are good and it is rare to find an example in this condition. The interior is excellent with no rips or tears to the seats and no cracks on the dashboard. Everything looks to be original, including the radio. Buyers should be aware that this lot has formed part of a large private collection and has been stood for some time in a heated environment, as such, some remedial works may be required. Supplied with an old style UK V5 that will be provided following the auction, this Alpine represents superb 70s style for a most reasonable outlay.