The Renault 16 is not a car you can simply glance at and move on. These fascinating, innovative family cars sit amongst one of the French company's most beguiling designs, with a modern, aluminium-headed front-wheel-drive engine that would shape the company's future for decades. Beyond that, though...
Handsome lines, an impressively cavernous hatchback layout and a long-travel fully independent suspension all come together to make this a very special machine. This particular one is carrying an amicably seventies Metallic Green shade, with a beige velour interior that still feels rather lush nearly fifty years later.
This fine car is an excellent ambassador for just how ahead of the game Renault were at this stage in history, and it's accompanied by a fair spot of paperwork, to boot. If you want a refined, unique and utterly eyecatching classic in your garage, this is just the ticket.
History and Paperwork
Registered in 1976
Originally based in France
Arrived in the UK in 2016
Since then the car has had 2 former British keepers
In current ownership since 2022
Comes with a number of invoices and some service history in a 1-inch thick file
Since ownership, the car has received a thorough service and decommissioning
Currently indicates 05,242km on a five-figure odometer, and has gone 'around the clock' in the past
Cherished registration WFJ4 is not supplied with the vehicle - it will instead be supplied with OAJ283P
The Condition
Previously restored, and appears in very good solid condition
Body and paintwork present very well, with no meaningful corrosion to note
Very gentle signs of wear to the bodywork
We note a dent to the bumper
Glasswork and lenses look in good order
Wheels present nicely
Underside appears solid and nicely maintained
Interior is very original and in good condition
No sign of any rips or tears to the velour
Door cards carry sag but appear in good overall order
Minor wear to the carpets, but they are original and add to the car's charm
All instruments on the dashboard are clean and very well-presented
The Mechanics
Powered by the highly respected - and very innovative - 1565cc A2L four-cylinder engine
Manual transmission with 4 gears
Long-travel, fully independent suspension
The engine bay is in very good order
We've no reports of any mechanical issues
The car is reportedly starting, driving, shifting and braking as it should
Recently recommissioned and serviced, which included:
Engine oil and filter
Gearbox oil change
Spark plugs
Refurbished brake caliper
Carburettor tune-up
Coolant change £400 spent on servicing
The vendor says:
This Renault 16 TL is very refined for a 4-cylinder car of this vintage, with a sprightly turn of speed. It can easily keep up with modern traffic and is happy at motorway speeds. It also rides with a compliance and ability to absorb bumps that modern cars cannot match.
This car attracts more positive attention than any car I have owned. People love it, particularly in its very 1970s colour scheme.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ 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..
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✓ 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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