Auction of unique Renault models
Fans and collectors of French cars have a unique opportunity: Renault is organizing a special sale, getting rid of dozens of scale models created in its design studios. The auction, curated by Artcurial Motorcars, is scheduled for December 7 in France and will also include several full-scale racing cars, concept cars, and production models.
The role of scale models in design
Scale models play a key role in design development, as they allow designers to evaluate proposals before moving to a full-scale clay model and static prototypes. Most of the vehicles featured in this article are 1:5 scale models made of composite materials. This is the predominant size for professional design models, as it is large enough for fine details and compact enough for easy transportation and storage.
Historical and iconic models
The auction includes about 40 mock-ups for wind tunnels and design works, covering the period from the late 1950s to the early 2010s. Among the early examples are a design study of a “berline” from the late 50s, a coupe from the late 60s, and a 1973 mid-engine sports car that never made it to mass production. Also present are fan-favorite models such as the 1968 R4L, the 1971 Alpine A110, and the 1992 Renault Twingo.
Innovative concepts
The 1988 Megane concept was an advanced luxury sedan with a V6 engine, cameras instead of mirrors, and adaptive suspension. The 1997 Pangea concept announced the original Kangoo LCV with a liquefied gas hybrid powertrain and a luxury trailer that served as a power source. Another interesting specimen is the Renault Reinastella – an imaginary flying car created in 1992 for the year 2328.
Modern concepts and design
More modern concepts include the 2001 Talisman, a four-seater coupe with massive gullwing doors and a V8 engine that has nothing in common with the sedan of the same name. They are joined by the Ellypse minivan, Wind roadster, Egeus SUV, Fluence and Fluence Z.E. sedans, and the ZOE Z.E. hatchback, which complete the French automaker’s era of the 2000s.
Latest offerings and impact
The newest offering is the 2011 Captur concept, one of the first to demonstrate the dynamic design language created under the leadership of Laurens van den Acker. It was later applied to the entire production line, including the first generation of the Captur subcompact SUV, which appeared in 2013.
Unique exhibits
Also worth mentioning is the cutaway model of the 1957-58 Cargo Liberty cargo ship, which carries no less than 90 Norev Dauphine microcars, and the 1:20 scale model of the 1959 Renault Panoramic Autorail Type 5150 train, which operated in the Alps and on the French Riviera.
Cost estimation
Most lots have an estimated value of between 1,000 and 2,000 euros, but in some cases this figure rises to 5,000 or even 10,000 euros. This means that certain scale models may cost more than the full-scale concepts from the same auction, which are estimated at between 4,000 and 6,000 euros.
Racing models
In addition to road cars, Renault is also selling 1:5 and 1:8 scale models of single-seater racing cars from 1981, 1982, 1985, 1990, 1992 (Nigel Mansell), 1993 (Damon Hill), 2005 (Fernando Alonso) and 2019 (Daniel Ricciardo). They were created as display models, and their estimated value ranges from 1,000 to 10,000 euros depending on rarity and popularity.
The future of Renault’s heritage
According to Renault, all models presented for sale exist in “several copies” in their collection, which explains why they want to free up space. The automaker plans to open a new brand heritage exhibition in Flins-sur-Seine near Paris in 2027, where visitors will be able to see past icons up close.
This auction not only provides a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history, but also highlights the importance of scale models in the design development process. The reproduction of details such as interiors and exteriors allows for a deeper understanding of how Renault’s iconic models were shaped. Such events also contribute to the preservation of the manufacturer’s cultural heritage, giving enthusiasts a chance to become part of this history. The future museum in Flins-sur-Seine promises to reveal even more artifacts, making this auction just the beginning of a new era for collectors and automotive design researchers.