1970' Renault 8

For sale is this fantastic example of Renault’s iconic R8 Gordini (R1135). This superb, restored example of Renaults iconic R8 Gordini is in fantastic condition throughout and is ready to be enjoyed by its next keeper.

Italian-born designer Amédée Gordini was known as “Le Sorcier” (“The Wizard”) for his work race-tuning engines for Simca during the late 1940s and early 1950s. When Simca closed its racing department in 1956, Gordini moved to Renault and the result was a match made in heaven. Gordini’s work on the Renault 8 transformed a dependable road car into an outstanding competitive race car that would soon earn the nickname “La Gorde”.

With its stiffened chassis, quick steering and rear-engine, rear wheel drive configuration, the R8 Gordini provided many an aspiring racing driver with a cost effective introduction to motorsport. In addition to helping the likes of Jody Scheckter on their chosen career path, the R8 Gordini was also a capable rally contender winning the 1967 San Remo Rally and proving a truly worthy entrant during the 1970 Monte Carlo Rally.

This particular R8 Gordini is believed to be one of just 294 RHD examples to have been exported and produced under licence by Renault’s South African plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria.

Purchased by a renowned collector some 15 years ago, it was decided that the Gordini was deserving of a complete restoration to bring it back to the condition it is presented in today. Having embarked upon a total and ‘no-expense spared’, ground up rebuild, the owner spent nearly 10 years sourcing many of the original and now rare parts (even down to the rubber mats ) from France. In addition to the full bare metal treatment, the engine, gearbox and all ancillaries were also reworked and built to the same high standards.

Complete with build numbers which match documentation and records for the time, the car features many original items which include the Quillery Gordini Steering wheel and 13inch AMW alloy wheels which help add to this late examples desirability.

Presented in fantastic condition throughout, a recent full service and MOT have been completed to ensure this rare and superb R8 Gordini is ready to be enjoyed by its new keeper.