Description
1966 Renault R8 Gordini
In 1964 Renault decided on a marketing campaign to enable enthusiastic sport drivers to satisfy their passion without paying more than the price of a conventional street car. Renault’s design brief was based around the standard rear engine Renault 8 that was released in 1962. The task of transforming the rather domesticated Renault 8 was entrusted to Amédée Gordini, who in the era was referred to as ‘the Wizard”.
Born in Italy in 1899, Amédée Gordini worked for Simca when he arrived in France, where he specialized in engine development and introduced innovative ideas to increase the competitiveness of the brand. From 1946 to 1951 Simca Gordini competed in European tracks against the might of European automotive makers such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Maserati, and Talbot. In 56 Simca closed its racing department so the opportunity to work with Renault to develop the mythical R8 “Gorde” was perfect timing.
The prototype was a four-cylinder 1100cc with twin carburetors developing 80 horsepower and adapted to a new 4-speed gearbox. To support the power increase, the Renault 8 structure had to be increased; a revised upgrade and reinforced chassis with double rear shocks made a huge improvement to the 8’s handling. Inside was also upgraded to include twin clocks (speedo & Tacho) plus a temperature gauge and an innovative brake fluid level gauge. The result of this development is very well known today by Renault enthusiasts around the globe; the R8 Gordini was, and still is, an exceptionally well-behaved vehicle that can be driven and enjoyed at very high limits. Remembering this was the 60s, the R8 Gordini had an amazing 170 km/h top speed and it took the arrival of Porsche’s 911 and the Alfa Romeo GTA to topple the little Gordini 8’s dominance.
Only 50 R8 Gordini’s were ever sold in North America, and this spectacular example is one of those 50; a genuine Type R1134. Still sporting the original “Special USA Made in France” decal, this Gordini has been respectfully restored including;
Engine rebuilt with new pistons, liners, and gaskets; New Koni shocks in rear (two on each side), new Twin 40 DCOE Webers (original air intake included), new electric fuel pump, rebuilt power brake booster, new brake rotors, calipers & brake lines, new hoses & battery, fuel tank cleaned & sealed with new sender, rebuilt starter and generator.
Included with the sale are a full set of wide 13″ CMR Rally wheels, California title and registration, a a fabulous selection of manuals & handbooks. This vehicle is located with its owner in California & the advertised price excludes shipping & arrival charges.
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