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RENAULT 4CV (1948) French elegance for Harry and Annie
We'd love to take you back to the 1950s; a story about Renault's crown jewel: the Renault 4CV. A small, unassuming, yet incredibly endearing model, it was a huge success, ultimately producing over a million units. Such a number is truly breathtaking. The Renault 4CV stole countless hearts, both then and now. This charming little vehicle looks especially stunning in white.
Renault Netherlands in its promotional advertisement: Thinking about a small car? Then the Renault 4 is the perfect choice. Its powerful engine gives you a smooth start, superb handling, and a thrilling acceleration. No matter how long the drive or steep the climb, the engine leaves you cold. It easily reaches 1 mph, yet its average fuel consumption is only 17 mpg! Better safe than sorry; as a Renault driver, you're always safe.
Harry took the plunge
In the 1950s, Harry bought his first used car: a Renault 4CV for 80 guilders (!). He drove it for several years until the brakes failed and the little car was forced to make its final journey to the scrap yard. Yet, the car always lingered softly in his thoughts. The linen license plate, along with a photo, was kept in a shoebox like a relic.
A classic enriches your life
Harry: "As a young man, you used to think about the future, but now, as a senior, your thoughts drift back to the old days. According to experts, those nostalgic feelings are a sign that you're getting older. (?) It's understandable that a lot changes over time, but the memories of my first, charming little car still enrich me."
The pearl in automotive history
For years, Harry had been searching the internet for a perfectly restored Renault 4CV. He was eager to see an offer in Roosendaal in person. It turned out the car belonged to an enthusiastic Renault enthusiast who had spent a full four years restoring it to pristine condition. Everything was meticulously documented: history, invoices, parts—exactly the kind of record that inspires confidence. The car's condition was truly fantastic; the photos speak volumes. After closing the deal, the reliving of the experience began again; that special feeling returned immediately.
Plans for the future
To relive the joy of driving yesterday's cars, Harry is rejoining a local classic car club. There are even plans to participate in the Elfstedentocht (Eleven Cities Tour) with his wife Annie next year.
A day in the past?
Of course, we'll never experience that literally again, but we do hear the stories of many classic car owners who fill our pages every month. Would you like to read about fascinating people and special classic cars or vintage vehicles on two or four wheels? Then a Subscription the best option; for only €49,50 per year you can enjoy it to the fullest.
(Below are some more pictures.)
I remember, as a child in the late 60s, riding in the front seat with my uncle in his 4CV. Watching the street speed by beneath my feet was a thrilling experience, as the rust had long since removed the floor. There was, however, a wooden platform to prop your feet up.
Next to the Fiat 600, the 4CV remains a cute, friendly little car that you always want to give a kiss to when you come across one.
Beautiful car and a lovely color indeed. It also matches beautifully with the brown interior.
I owned one from 1957 myself, and I thought it was one of the most fun cars to drive. Surprisingly comfortable, even on longer journeys, and hard work to keep up the pace. It's also great that a Maxi-Cosi can be wedged snugly between the back and front seats. 😉
Take care of this gem!
Great article! Enjoy your own Juvaquatre with the same original rear lights, including a single brake light in the center. It's also interesting to note that this 4CV is from 1948, just a year after its introduction. It's incredibly rare, which makes driving a car from bygone era even more enjoyable.