The Renault Trezor is flanked at Retromobile by a Reinastella on the left, and a rare original “barn find” Viva Grand Sport 1939 on the right…   

The 42nd edition of Retromobile at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre in Paris hosts some remarkable (French) finds, and for the first time, FCA Heritage, the department of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles responsible for promotion of the historical legacy of the Italian brands in the Group, will also be present…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Renault is coming “en force”, as can be expected, and brings the last juwel in its collection. Nothing else than an exceedingly rare VIVA GRAND SPORT Coupé from 1939.

It is completely original, having never undergone any restoration, “dans son jus”, as the photo above shows clearly.  In perfect working order despite not having moved for almost half a century, this car has barely 22,000km on the clock. Just look at the instruments on the photos.

Alpine is also showing its historic models, last but not least the iconic A 110 “Berlinette”. The A110 Berlinette would establish itself as one of the very best rally cars of its generation.

The Alpine Vision show car is of course also on display. This show car offers a tantalising preview of the road-going model that Alpine will officially unveil at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 7…

As said, FCA Heritage is also present, and Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia and Abarth will be exhibiting 8 vintage models.

One of the astonishing cars we find is this Abarth 1000 Monoposto Record, just to show that in those “golden” sixties, everything was also possible for Italian manufacturers, and the sky was the limit.

What also to think of a dramatically styled 2600 SZ Prototipo? We show you here an original works photo…above and below

Just note that Retromobile has its doors open until February 12…

Hans Knol ten Bensel