Renault Dauphine (projet 109). 1956–67 (prod. 2,150,738). 4-door saloon. R/R, 845 cm³ (I4 OHV). Renault recognized the postwar buyer would want something more sophisticated than its 4CV, and developed the Dauphine to appeal to them. Ventoux engine bored out to a 5CV size; more interior room and more available colours. Styling followed the Frégate’s, but scaled down. Originally inserted between 4CV and Frégate, later supplanting the smaller car. Luxury Ondine model from 1961 to 1963, 1093 racing homologation specials in 1961–3 (2,140 built) with 49 PS, and sporting Gordini from 1964 with 36 PS and good for 126 km/h. Very basic Teimoso offered in Brazil. Exported to the US, where at one point it was the top-selling import, and an electric model (the Henney Kilowatt) was built on its base. Indifferent workmanship, but engine responsive; light steering aided manœuvrability. Handling acceptable for a rear-wheel-drive car, but poor brake feel. Three-speed transmission standard, though Gordini had a four-speed, and semi-automatic, later automatic, gearboxes available. Built also in Spain by FASA, in Italy by Alfa Romeo, in Brazil by Willys–Overland, and in Argentina by IKA.

Manufacturing locations: Flins, France; Valladolid, Spain; Santa Isabel, Argentina; Ciudad Sahagún, Mexico; São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil; Milano, Italy

Marque: Renault | Predecessor: Renault 4CV | Successor: Renault 8

q.v. Renault Floride