- High-quality older restoration, to be finished

- Elegant styling, attractive interior

- Renault’s first large saloon after the war

- No reserve

Although its range until the end of the 1930s had customarily included some roomy saloons, after the war it would be 1951 before Renault introduced a large modern saloon, the Frégate. Under its elegant bodywork inspired by North American design and styled by Robert Barthaud’s team, this unitary-bodied saloon featured independent trailing-arm rear suspension, rack and pinion steering and a driveshaft which was mounted sufficiently low to allow a flat floor. The 2-litre 4-cylinder engine was slightly lacking in power for this comfortable saloon, but in 1956 it was backed up by a more powerful ‘Étendard’ version.

The car from the collection is one of the final models, with a chrome radiator grille with a triangular badge on top. It also has more protrusive front indicators and streamlined taillights. Finished in beige, it was the subject of an older restoration and has been well preserved since; the interior reflects the attractive presentation characteristic of the model, with its ivory-coloured steering wheel and dashboard. The bodywork has been carefully restored, and the metalwork also continues to look very good. The staff at the collection got the car started again, but noted that the engine block was cracked. This attractive Frégate will therefore need a complete mechanical overhaul before it can be driven again, but the quality of the restoration of its bodywork and interior should not leave enthusiasts unmoved.