Competed roughly 20 regularity rallies in the last 10 years
“One of the best Spanish Alpines around”
The Appeal
The Alpine A110 is an icon of the rally world and adored by motoring enthusiasts the world over. It dominated the rallying scene in its time and now features in seemingly every classic car motorsport event on the planet.
First manufactured in Spain’s Renault-FASA factory, this 1969 Alpine A110 spent very little time in its original specification soon being transformed into a rally car replica by Enrique Depaz and Gratien Amorena under the ownership of ex-rally driver, José Ignacio Sunsundegui. Spending plenty of time in the icon’s collection, it was purchased by its current owner in 1996 with the goal of competing in regularity rallies.
Around this time, it was fitted with the torquier 1.4-litre engine from an R5 Alpine. It later received the five-speed gearbox from an R5 Turbo and was kitted out with all the equipment one needs to compete.
Today, it sits in a garage in San Sebastian competing in the odd rally and being well cared for by its current owner. Looking to provide the thrill of a rear-engine four-pot to its next Alpine-enthusiast owner, this car may not be in original condition. But it is certainly a stunning proposition for those looking for a rough and ready model that looks great. Indeed, Alpine specialists, Auto Racing in Orthez, South of France reportedly dubbed it “one of the best Spanish (FASA) Alpines around.”R-Alpine_LuisMurguia_Pabloaxpe_HIRES_004.jpg6.14 MB
History and Paperwork
Manufactured in 1969 by FASA (Fabrication de Automoviles Sociedad Anonima)
Purchased by Spanish rally driver, José Ignacio Sunsundegui
Added to the ex-driver’s car collection
Turned into a replica competition in 1991 model including engine, bodywork and livery
Purchased by the current owner in 1996
Prepared for rally events
Non-original engine currently fitted
Used in TSD regularity rally races
Many spare parts with the car, though not included in the sale
20 regularity rallies have been completed over the last 10 years, this is equated to 2 or 3 rallies per year
Two Spanish registrations: classic vehicle and modern registration
Before jumping behind the wheel of this model, one will immediately spot that it is not in original condition. Indeed, many additions have been made in the name of safety and regularity rally requirements.
The car features a full roll hoop in the back, period-correct bucket seats, Sabelt harnesses and a Momo Prototipo steering wheel. In addition, navigation and timing equipment is fitted to the dashboard. The owner was keen to point out that this model retains old-school mechanical stop watches and Tripmaster Halda. They still work just as they should and are reportedly accurate enough to compete with modern machinery.
Throughout the cabin, one would be forgiven for thinking that this car had never competed in a competitive event. Indeed, the carpets, steering wheel, gear knob and seats are all in great visual condition. The odd minor imperfection here and there disguise themselves in an otherwise very clean cabin.
If one thing is true, it’s that the original Alpine A110 shape is one of beauty and class. The small coupe shape and dainty details come together to make an elegant piece of automotive design. That is offset by the model’s aggressive power and performance however. Though in a very good way.
This model looks just as good as any other, presenting in great condition. The bodywork all looks straight and the underside is seemingly especially clean. Indeed, images taken from underneath present a model in very clean shape.
Thanks to work done by the car’s previous owner, it presents akin to the true rally racers of the late-1960s and early-1970s. Indeed, minor details such as lightweight bonnet latches and easily removable rear bumper help with maintenance. But cosmetically, the additional spot lamps and Alpine-Renault racing livery help this car look like a true rallying icon.R-Alpine_LuisMurguia_Pabloaxpe_HIRES_005.jpg6.05 MB
The Mechanics
1440cc inline-four engine from a Renault 5 Alpine
Alpine 353-03 5-speed gearbox, rebuilt by specialist Tony Dal Molin using R5 Turbo material to make it more robust.
Starts easily, drives perfectly
As aforementioned, this 1969 Alpine A110 is far from factory specification. Indeed, it was fully prepared through multiple stages for its life in regularity rally competition. Indeed, upon purchase by the current owner in 1996, its engine was replaced by the 1.4-litre unit found in a Renault 5 Alpine. Providing more low-end torque, this power plant was deemed better suited to rallying than the original engine.
Elsewhere, it also features a five-speed transmission with a longer first gear ratio. The unit comes from a Alpine 353-03 meaning it is also designed to handle greater power, making it more reliable according to the owner. It also features improved engine mounts, uprated suspension and brakes, as well as a 50-litre fuel tank. Up front sits a copper radiator whilst not one but two fuel pumps help keep the engine powering on.
Being under the ownership of an engineer over the last quarter of a decade, the car has clearly been well cared for. The owner claims they use it on a frequent basis and make sure to maintain it properly. It reportedly drives very well and starts easily.R-Alpine_LuisMurguia_Pabloaxpe_HIRES_034.jpg5.68 MB
Summary
This Alpine A110 may not be a concours example presenting as if it just left the factory. But what it does do is offer Alpine afficionados the opportunity to experience the thrill of A110 ownership in what must be the ultimate version of the car. Great fun to drive thanks to the engine and gearbox modifications and in very good visual shape, it is ready to put a smile on its next owner’s face.
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.
