Photos provided by the seller
Highlights
- Recently subject to an extensive restoration of the body, interior and mechanicals
- Equipped with the 1289cc Cléon-Fonte engine which has been totally rebuilt
- Back on the road and ready to complete its running-in period
- Restoration pics at the end of the listing
- The work was observed keenly by the prestigious C.R.A.G.I.
The Appeal
The Alpine A110 is nothing short of a four-wheeled deity to us at Car & Classic. The car that decisively won the inaugural F.I.A. World Rally Championship in 1973, the A110 is rightly worshipped by petrolheads.
We’re positively ecstatic when the opportunity to acquire one of these dainty machines presents itself and we’re delighted to offer this restored 1976 example.
The owner of this Alpine embarked on an exceedingly comprehensive restoration that ensured this wonderful car retained as much of its originality as possible.
It is now back on the road and partially run in. All that is left to do is be driven and we’re sure the next owner will be reluctant to get out once they’ve had their first taste of the Alpine’s capabilities.
The History and Paperwork
- Acquired from Belgium by the vendor in 2019
- It was in poor condition and greatly in need of a full restoration
- After bringing the car to Italy, the vendor has carried out a comprehensive rebuild, overseen by Club Renault Alpine Gordini Italia (C.R.A.G.I.)
- Great attention was devoted to ensuring the preservation of the Alpine’s originality
- Road registered in Italy and wears the registration ‘ZB 462 AK’
- Originally built in Alpine’s Dieppe factory and it was reportedly intended for the German market
- Accompanied by its Italian ownership, registration and Revisione documentation
- Registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (A.S.I.)
- Officially declared as a ‘vehicle of historical and collective interest’ on 21st July 2020
The Interior
- Reupholstered to original specification
- Finished to a very high standard
- We’re informed the invoices for parts and materials have been retained
The Alpine’s interior was clearly designed with nothing more than the business of spirited driving in mind. A far cry from today’s massaging seats, infotainment screens and onboard computers, the A110 simply creates a conducive environment for driving at the best of your ability.
Once you’ve lowered yourself aboard, the quilted bucket seats hold you firmly in place around even the tightest of hairpins. When the vendor acquired the car, it had the incorrect seats fitted so these are replacement items which have clearly been upholstered to a really fine standard.
The floor-mounted pedals are judiciously placed for smooth gear changes and a perfectly proportioned sports steering wheel ensures you feel entirely in control at all times. Positioned a short distance from the wheel, the gear lever is exactly where you’d want it and so your right hand is never far away from where it needs to be.
When it comes to enjoying a sports car, we find these small details matter far more than whether you have Bluetooth connectivity or a heated steering wheel…
Speaking of tech, or the lack thereof, you’ll find an array of beautiful Veglia instruments which provide the driver with all the information they could possibly need and the vendor informs us that everything works as it should including the Jaeger electric clock. We note this example has also been fitted with a discreet electrical cut-off, which is a sensible addition on these older cars.
The Exterior
- Finished in the distinctive blue that is associated with the Alpine brand
- Glass fibre body shell restored to an exceedingly high standard
- The work was observed keenly by the prestigious C.R.A.G.I.
As the series of photographs provided by the vendor illustrate, this A110 was stripped down in its entirety and the intricate glass fibre shell was then repaired with great attention paid to ensuring everything was carried out to factory specification.
The vendor points out that the black painted strengthening sections which make up the shell’s underside are restored to original specifications which we’re informed is a detail most restorations overlook. A number of glass fibre repairs were required to the bodywork before it was repainted in that iconic shade of blue.
The chassis was in a bad way and has been carefully mended where necessary. There is now no corrosion anywhere to be seen and the bodywork is beautifully finished. We noticed a few small imperfections around the front vent apertures but this may well have been how the glass fibre was originally moulded on this low-production sports car which was made for go rather than show.
Those GT alloy wheels look splendid and the tyres appear to have ample tread remaining. All of the glass presents well including the moulded perspex headlamp covers
We couldn’t see any blemishes in the paint and the same goes for the bumpers, trims and brightwork which present exceedingly well. There are no obvious signs of damage and you can really tell this car is freshly restored.
The Mechanics
- 1289cc Cléon-Fonte engine
- Rebuilt mechanicals
- Has reportedly covered fewer than 5,000 kilometres since completion
Equipped with a souped-up version of Renault’s 1289cc Cléon-Fonte engine, this Alpine boasts ample performance thanks to its small footprint and low mass. The vendor’s restoration photographs show the engine being rebuilt and it now also features a more sporting tappet cover to complete the look under the rear hatch.
The car has reportedly covered fewer than 5,000 kilometres since completion and as a result we’re advised it is still in need of some more running-in before it can be used at ten tenths. With the aid of an electric fuel pump, the car starts well and runs without fault. The vendor informs us that it drives really well with absolutely no issues to report.
All that is left to do is for the next owner to put some miles under this Alpine’s belt.
Summary
We were ever so excited when we saw this Alpine was to be offered for sale. If, like us, you’d like to become its custodian, then this is not an opportunity to be missed.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
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