Renault Alpine A110

1964 Alpine Renault A110  53.500km 

It came to these shores in the Noughties, gaining an FIA Passport in 2007, and competing regularly in numerous events. In 2012, the then owner, 

 

commissioned a full body restoration – at an estimated cost of £26k – picture disc detailing it, included – and the engine rebuilt to its then 

 

current specification, which included a racing-spec camshaft.  The original seats have been adapted to offer improved lumbar support and comfort, a half roll-cage and TRS four-point harnesses are also 

 

fitted. Under bonnet, boot and car have been completed to a similarly high standard, and the entire package would happily grace the most 

 

stringent of concours lawns.

On the road it’s a brutal and viscerally entertaining car. The steering is supremely direct, the 5-speed ‘box shifts with aplomb and the non-

 

servo brakes require a hefty push, but with around 600kg to reign in are more than up to the job.

With a race camshaft fitted, the engine comes on ‘cam’ between 3000-3500rpm so you need to keep the revs high – do that, and it pulls like a 

 

demon. The gearbox’s fifth cog civilizes matters at motorway speeds, so it’ll cruise happily, but you have to drop down to access any punch for 

 

overtaking.