1912 renault cb tourer

This example of belle époque Renault engineering was imported by the Brisbane agent, Canada Cycle and Motor Co. through the UK and Commonwealth agents. It was part of a special order, with larger-diameter Rudge-Whitworth wire wheels, and left the Paris factory in May 1912. Nothing further is known of its history until it was purchased by a Victorian farmer who used it on his property between the wars and then added it to his collection of items that he intended to establish as a museum. Following his death in 1990, much of the then dismantled car was accidently burnt, but the remains were gathered and kept in storage. The current owner purchased the parts in 2011 and over the following 6 years fully restored the car mechanically and built the period coachwork, engaging professional support for the bonnet rebuild, hood and upholstery, and some mechanical items. The Renault has a four-cylinder side-valve pair-cast engine of 2.4 litres developing 12/16 HP at 1200 rpm, and a three-speed transmission. Braking is through rear-wheel internal expanding drums and a similar transmission brake behind the gearbox. The suspension is three-quarter elliptical leaf springs rear and semi-elliptical on the front. The large wheels combined with the low-revving engine and the gearing deliver a relaxed and comfortable ride at up to 70kph. There are 15 survivors of this model worldwide. The car has been completely rebuilt down to every nut and bolt. The engine, clutch and differential were thoroughly overhauled, including fitting of new pistons, valve guides and gudgeon pins. The wheels, coachwork, brass work (except the lights and radiator) and upholstery are all new. The presentation of the vehicle earned it an invitation to the Concours d’Elegance at the 2019 Motorclassica in Melbourne. A detailed record of the restoration is available in the form of a daily log from the time of purchase with an associated digital file including several thousand images and videos. A 100-page book on the restoration is available for purchase. Other inclusions are copies of an original owner’s manual, a parts book and a comprehensive illustrated operation manual written for the car as it stands today. Further details of all the mechanical repairs are available, along with receipts for the specialist work done and items purchased, and other plans, diagrams, and restoration notes. There are several specialist tools and a few spares, including two rear axles, included. The car has several modern features added for safety and/or convenience, including brake lights and indicators, an electric fuel pump, and more recently an electric starter. The headlights are original Ducelier acetylene models and functional (as is the Ducelier acetylene generator) but have been converted to electric. Similarly, the taillight is kerosene-powered but is now electric. All these modifications are easily reversible. The car has completed the Bay to Birdwood Run along with several club outings and rallies. It is currently on South Australian Historic registration, which is not transferable, but the number plate is available if required. The car is currently on display at Gilbert’s Motor Museum in Strathalbyn, South Australia, where it can be accessed readily and made available for close inspection and a test drive. Transport interstate or overseas can be arranged at the buyer’s expense.