Highlights

One of only three 1978 examples reported as still registered or SORN in the UK
In the same family since 1981 - approximately 45 years
Dry stored since November 1983 - over 42 years
V5 document present in current keeper's name

The Appeal

The Renault 16 was a genuinely pioneering car - widely regarded as the first mass-produced hatchback, with a modular interior creating a versatile machine indeed and one of Europe’s first mass-produced die-cast aluminium engine blocks. The comfortable, handsome little passenger car won the 1966 European Car of the Year award, and it carved out quite a legacy.

By 1978, the model was nearing the end of its production run, and survivors today are vanishingly rare. According to How Many Left, only three 1978 Renault 16s remain registered or SORN in the UK.

This metallic green TL has been in the same family since April 1981 and was placed into dry storage in November 1983, where it has remained for over 42 years. Showing 36,721 miles on the odometer, it presents an appealing recommissioning project for the right buyer. While it does not currently run, this is a rare opportunity to bring a long-stored Renault 16 TL back to life — a car with strong family provenance and genuine scarcity.

Key Information

Mileage: 36,721 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT-exempt as a historic vehicle
Technical specs: 1,565cc four-cylinder petrol, five-door hatchback
Paperwork: V5 present in current keeper's name

The Detail

Does not currently run and requires recommissioning
Dry stored since November 1983 in a garage, covered
The vendor reports the bodywork to be solid following its period of dry storage
Surface rust noted on the offside wing top and passenger door
Bonnet and roof resprayed in 1983 following hailstone damage; garaged immediately upon return from the coachworks
Brakes freed easily when the car was recently moved from storage
Still on original tyres
Spare wheels, tyres, and spare chrome caps included
Metallic green exterior with brown interior
Five former registered keepers
In the same family since 1981

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

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