Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
A magnifique Phase 1 Renault 9 TLE with an incredible 8,844 miles from new.
EQUIPMENT
Aerodynamic wrap-around polyester bumpers, rubberised side mouldings, rubberised rear spoiler, progressive collapse zones, heated rear window, remote control driver’s door mirror, locking petrol cap, front, rear and centre arm rests, reclining front seats, arc adjustment of front seats, front headrests, vanity mirrors, map reading light, illuminated cigar lighter, headlamp level adjust, Kienzle quartz clock, engine oil level indicator, rev counter, rheostat, fuel level warning light. Dealer accessories; Renault Boutique Alloy wheels, front fog lamps, mud flaps.
EXTERIOR
This delightful and super chic Renault 9 is finished in the original colour of Black, (Code 694) and is a very rare surviving Phase 1 model. European Car of the Year in 1982, this example has covered just 8,884 miles from new having been won in a Renault ‘Fit the Piece’ National Draw in 1982! Preserved in long term storage, the structural condition is superb and whilst presentable there is evidence of less than perfect paintwork rectification and amateur touch ups, carried out due to sun damage where the car lived for many years. All trim pieces are intact and well preserved with only light aging to the rear spoiler noteworthy. This high specification TLE model is sure to delight fans of the diamond badged French manufacturer!
INTERIOR
The interior of this well specified TLE model is in excellent condition. The velour upholstery in Sand colour scheme is immensely comfortable, a classic characteristic of Renault and unworn owing to the ultra-low mileage. Again there is mild evidence of sun fading to the plastics and carpets, but this does not detract from the overall condition. There is a small stain underneath the driver’s floor mat. All functions and controls operate well including the quirky Renault cylindrical engine oil level indicator. Natural veins to the unworn steering wheel and gear knob are prominent and the typically fragile Renault plastics have avoided the usual damage associated with regular use. A traditional 1980’s Renault lounge interior.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Fitted with the 1397cc 4 cylinder engine with integral electronic ignition, a power output of 60bhp at 5,250rpm is achieved, enough to reach 94mph. A clean and unmolested engine compartment displays all the manufacturer plates and stickers with paint code markings as well as red PDI dots visible to the strut tops. The five speed all synchro gearbox, standard on the TLE models, offers a relaxed cruising manner in comparison to lesser models and this example feels tight and precise. A very capable and lively drive, typical of a lightweight French car!
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Dealership optional alloys wheels from the Renault Boutique range were specified as an upgrade along with mud flaps. The intricate design to the attractive wheels has been very well protected and all four tyres are matching 175/70 R13 with plenty of tread remaining. Hydraulic twin circuit brakes incorporate servo assistance, discs up front and rear drums to offer adequate stopping power.
HISTORY FILE
Registered new on the 20th October 1982, this example was won as a brand new car by the first owner through the ‘Fit the Piece’ National Draw and was presented by Renault National Promotions Manager Peter Widdecombe at the Renault UK Leeds Branch. The ingenious competition involved sending a key to customers to then visit their local Renault dealership, and if the key fitted a car they became winners of it! The first owner, although no doubt delighted with their good fortune did not require the car and it was laid up for many years. In 2010 Renault Classic Car Club member, John Bradshaw, knew of the vehicle and tracked it down knowing it to be arguably the lowest mileage example in the country. He purchased the car adding it to an extensive collection but not finding the time to put it on the road. Fellow club member and Club Registrar, Richard Newton Birchenough, purchased the car next and sourced obscure trim pieces and fully recommissioned it. Joining no less than four Renault 18s including a very rare TL estate the difficult decision was made and the car was sold to concentrate on the 18s. The history file contains the original Renault plastic wallet with handbooks, guides and pamphlets as well as club literature, an original sourced sales brochure and workshop manual. This rare surviving Renault 9, seldom seen on UK roads, will suit any Renault enthusiast or collector of quirky classics.
HPI Clear.
