Description
Renault Dauphine Rally | 1959
Highlights:
– 0.9-Litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with 4-speed manual transmission
– Historic-regularity-prepared car with passport for category E events
– Upgraded 904 cc engine with twin Weber 32 carburettors, 12 V electrics and direct steering
– Dauphine Gordini four-wheel disc brakes, Mad’in wheels and semi-slick tyres
– Bucket seats with harnesses, tripmaster and extra gauges for rally use
The seller offers for sale a 1959 Renault Dauphine that has been transformed into a charismatic historic regularity car. Powered by a 904 cc four-cylinder petrol engine with a performance kit, twin Weber 32 carburettors and a 4-speed synchromesh manual gearbox, this compact saloon is set up for lively driving. The body was prepared in 2008 and now shows some age-related imperfections, fitting its competition character rather than a show-car image. Inside, the cabin remains largely original but has been adapted for rally outings with two bucket seats, harnesses, a tripmaster, rev counter and auxiliary gauges for fuel level, temperature and battery. Mechanically, the seller reports a strong condition: the engine starts without hesitation, does not emit blue or white smoke when warm, and produces no unusual noises. The gearbox shifts smoothly and quietly, while direct steering, four disc brakes from a Dauphine Gordini and semi-slick tyres on Mad’in wheels sharpen the driving dynamics. The car carries a historic regularity passport in category E, has no known rust or accident damage, and holds a valid technical inspection.
The Renault Dauphine is one of the classic symbols of post-war French mobility. Launched in the mid-1950s as a compact rear-engined saloon, it offered practical urban transport with a distinctive, rounded design. Light controls and modest weight give the Dauphine a nimble feel, while the rear-engine layout delivers engaging handling at moderate speeds. In period, the model earned a reputation for charm and economy rather than outright performance, yet it also formed the basis for sportier derivatives and motorsport entries, including rally cars. Today, enthusiasts appreciate the Dauphine for its quirky character, compact dimensions and unmistakable French style. A competition-prepared example like this one adds an extra layer of appeal, combining everyday usability with upgrades that make it suitable for classic regularity rallies, track days or spirited weekend drives, while still retaining the recognisable silhouette that made the Dauphine a household name across Europe.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Grand Est region, France.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a French registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
