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The Renault R4 was introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1961. The R4 aimed to break the monopoly of the 2CV or at least increase Renault's market presence. Renault advertised their new car as an all-purpose family car. Until 1994, the R4 was produced in large quantities. The car appeals to an eclectic audience, even today.
As the post-war predecessor of the R4, the Renault 4CV, quickly became outdated due to rapidly evolving technology, Renault had to come up with some innovation. Thus the R4 was born in 1961 as a successor to the Renault 4CV. It was a compact family car that accommodated four people and was suitable for both the countryside and the increasingly busy city traffic. The first models were equipped with a four-cylinder engine with 747 cc - double that of the 2CV - independent wheel suspension on all four wheels, and torsion bar suspension that provides a very comfortable driving experience that even many modern cars do not offer. Journalists confirmed this when they drove it through the uninviting Camargue in Southern France. Over the years, some engine volume was gradually added, but the basics remained the same throughout the entire period. The design also remained almost unchanged throughout the production period, as the initial design met the market demand.
Over the years, various versions have been introduced to the market, though some were more successful than others. For example, there was the cabriolet Plein Air, the pickup Teilhol, and the most famous of all: the R4 Fourgonnette, the van that was so famous that a nickname was invented: the ‘bread van’, because bakers typically used this car to deliver bread.
What initially caused criticism later led to admiration for Renault and the R4. The R4 can be considered as the first hatchback of all time, with its rear hatch hinged upwards, which was unprecedented. Previously, rear hatches only hinged to the left or right. The R4 offered an exception that was soon copied by other brands and is still used today in lots of new cars.
In 1994, production of the R4 came to an end, and the last 1.000 units were named the R4 Bye Bye. Approximately 8.1 million units were built in total. The Renault Twingo is often seen as the successor to this classic car.
Renault R4 Clan
The Renault R4 Clan was introduced in 1986 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the R4 and was intended to preserve the love and dedication of repeating Renault buyers. The design itself does not differ much from the base model, and that was not necessary as the base model already met the market's demand in an excellent way. However, the dashboard was different, and came in a new look.
Nowadays, the R4 is a highly sought-after car among enthusiasts. Its playful design and the fact that it can be seen as the first hatchback ever make this car a coveted classic car.
Technical information:
Body work
Mechanics