Description
Renault 6TL: Fully Restored – Simply Outstanding
The Renault 6 was launched at the 1968 Paris Motor Show and was intended to be an upmarket alternative to the Renault 4 that would compete with the Citroen Ami 6 and the recently launched Dyane.
The ‘6’ used the Renault 4 platform (including the over engine “umbrella” gear change) but it's hatchback body was larger/ more modern and visually closely resembled the larger Renault 16.
At Milestone Classics we have a soft spot for the tres-chic Gallic charm of mid-1960’s French automobiles – their original styling and simple engineering solutions deliver style & performance in equal measure. We did not plan to purchase this delightful example but one drive around the block and we were hooked!
This fabulous Renault 6TL – a rare top of the range facelift model with square headlamps – was imported into the UK some years ago by a French car enthusiast who found her languishing in the back of a barn in the Haute-Vienne region of Central France. The old farmer who owned her had simply driven her into his barn when he bought his next Renault (around 25 years previously) and put a sheet over her.
When the car arrived in the UK a major restoration / recommissioning exercise commenced that extended to bodywork & floors, interior, mechanical and electrical components.
Work included: -
· Major body restoration – wings, doors, bonnet & boot removed/ retained. (No new panels required).
· Corrosion found in floors/ body replaced with new metal & waxoyled.
· Professional respray in original colour
· Brakes overhauled – stainless brake pipes, callipers, cables, wheel cylinders, the master cylinder and handbrake cables replaced.
· Full service – plugs, points, oil & filter
· Tyres – all replaced.
· Rear exhaust replaced.
· Headlights, light lenses & bulbs replaced.
· All door & boot seals replaced.
· Interior – new carpets and seats reupholstered in period fabric.
The result is a real testament to the knowledge and skill of the restorer. On the road the Renault performs very well with surprising performance, handling, brakes and super light controls – she is a pleasure to drive.
This superb little car has really caught our imagination! I have used her for the weekend and have enjoyed every moment. Ready for the Goodwood Revival campsite we will be very sorry to see this car leave us.
