Renault Dauphine

Renault Dauphine (1960 )

The Renault Dauphine is a 1956-1968 built car model by the French manufacturer Renault. The vehicle with typical pontoon body had a water-cooled engine, which was placed in the rear. The name means heiress and aims it at the sales success of the 4CV in Europe and in the U.S., where it has been initially exported successfully. There she gained a reputation as a small low-cost, but later also unreliable vehicle, what the initial sales success curbed quickly, at least in the United States. However, the Dauphine did this in Europe no harm. They enjoyed especially in the Federal Republic of Germany popularity. However, the out-dated but solid VW Beetle could not outstrip. As the precursor 4CV, the Dauphine was sold only as a four-door sedan.

Variants

From 1958 the model Dauphine Gordini was built, which is a 26.5 to 33 - 36 hp had later increased performance. The wheels were hung on the front double wishbone and rear of a swing axle. Beginning of the 1960s, the drum brakes were replaced by disc brakes on all four wheels, then a technical specialty, which was unusual for vehicles in this price range. As of 1965, the Gordini version was just built.

For the car sports a R1093 or rally called Dauphine model 1959 yet developed the several car races, such as the Monte Carlo Rally took part. The engine power of this model was increased to 49 hp, the brake drums were provided with cooling fins and a 5-speed gearbox was fitted.

A luxury version was sold as Ondine ( in German " Mermaid ").

Rear of the Dauphine " Gordini "

" Gordini " lettering