Renault 4cv Based Specials where the Renault 4cv was sold. At its peak, it is estimated that 4cv based projects numbered in the thousands. While certainly not all these constructors aspired to become manufacturers, a significant number were amateur racers, while this was by no means cheap, for many it was the least expensive option. While the vast majority just wanted to have a unique vehicle, some open, others closed either coupe or sedan Variations Following the war, the most common body style chosen by racers could best be described as if a block of clay had been molded into a streamlined form. The first “Tank” racer had been introduced by Bugatti in 1923, and were still the favorite vehicle type for Le Mans nearly three decades later. Not surprisingly, the first 4cv based racers the Bosvin-Michel Special or BMS, Ferry and V-P’s R1064 were all tanks. However this was changing with the introduction of a new Italian design known as the ‘Barquette’. While very similar to tank, the barquette was much more rounded, an open two-seater with enveloping body and often referred to as boat-like in shape. Besides its racing applications, it could also be driven for pleasure, as well as a new generation of 4cv based coupes were finding their way both to the track as well as on the street. Interestingly, the least popular type of 4cv based racer in France, at this time, was the openwheeled racer. Though a few examples were created. The final type of 4cv based re-creation, was probably the most common, though it goes by many names: convertible, decouvrable, décapotable spider, just to name a few. Many of these transformations were made by only modifying or replacing a portion of the cars panels, however a completely new body was not out of the question, especially when fiberglass bodies became more common. While some of these unique designs can not be fit into any style or type of vehicle, in those cases, other might be an appropriate term. No matter the style, it is amazing the number of examples still being rediscovered. The vast number comes through racing results, followed by period forensic photographic research, but also at an occasional car show or vintage race, or on the very rarest of occasions, when one of these long lost 4cv specials actually comes up for sale. 1951 STAL Single-Seater 1953 V-P Le Mans coupe 1953 Rosier Barquette
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjA0NTk=