This car is as French as the Eiffel Tower.
A rare 1927 Renault 15 CV, one of the few remaining examples of the Type RA model, is about to be auctioned off on Bring A Trailer. This particular vehicle, chassis 287084, not only showcases custom cabriolet coachwork by Million-Guiet but also boasts a rich history that includes appearances at the Paris and New York motor shows in 1926.
Originally delivered to a family in Southampton, New York, this classic has been part of a private collection for over six decades. It underwent a significant refurbishment in 1989, shortly after being acquired by a Connecticut collector, and impressively completed the 4,095-mile 1990 Great American Race. Rediscovered in long-term storage in the Hamptons in 2017, the car received a mechanical overhaul before its acquisition by the current seller in 2021. Recently, it graced the 2024 Arizona Concours d’Elegance, where it claimed second place in its class.
Finished in a striking beige and brown color scheme, the Renault is powered by a 3,181cc L-head inline-six engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. It features mechanically actuated four-wheel drum brakes with servo assistance, hydraulic shock absorbers, and distinctive orange-painted wood-spoke wheels. The interior and rumble seat are upholstered in tan leather, complementing the elegant wooden dash and period-correct Jaeger instruments, albeit some of which are non-functional.
This meticulously restored 1927 Renault 15 CV by Million-Guiet is a testament to the elegance and engineering prowess of its era.