A choice of style by Brigitte Bardot – Renault Caravelle
The Renault Caravelle made its American debut at the New York Auto Show in December 1959 where 13,000 prospective buyers placed orders for what was billed as “A dream car come true.” Initially started life as the Floride, the name was changed to Caravelle to appeal also to buyers from other American states.
The same characteristics that attracted the buyers in the Sixties make the Caravelle an alluring choice today.
Styling, of course, is first on the list. And while its uniqueness no doubt appealed to many original purchasers, the ravages of time have thinned their already meager ranks to the point that Caravelles are as scarce as hen’s teeth.
Of course, that means that finding one in the first place will likely involve a lengthy search and that’s why we were well surprised to see this Caravelle in South of Paris a few months back .
His owner (which also drives this lovely NSU TT) been preserved from rust in original condition and the paint has been refreshed. Brigitte Bardot owned a Caravelle in the same colour. A real piece of French history.
If you want to know more about the Renault Caravelle and Floride check out http://www.renaultcaravelle.com/, lots and lots of infos and useful links there.
Technical Specifications for the 1962 Renault Caravelle
2 door coupé type body with a rear positioned engine supplying power to the rear wheels.
Its 1.1 litre engine is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve, 4 cylinder that has an output of 51 bhp (52 PS/38 kW) of power at 5400 rpm, and maximum torque of 80 N·m (59 lb·ft/8.2 kgm) at 3300 rpm.
A 4 speed manual gearbox delivers the power to the wheels.
It weighs a stated 825 kg at the kerb.
