Vehicle Description
In the late 1950s, Renault was no doubt taking notice of the
growing success Volkswagen was enjoying in the United Sates.
Searching for ways to capture some of the market that the German
company had successfully acquired, Renault needed to do something
to get customers to buy more Dauphines. At a convention for North
American distributors that was held in Florida, Renault's US
dealers asked for a sporty Dauphine coupe or convertible they could
sell, which would add excitement to the Renault brand in the
critical US market. Renault's chairman, Pierre Dreyfus agreed, and
since the idea had been born at a convention in Florida, it was
named Floride. Using the underpinnings from the Dauphine, including
the engine, transmission, floor-pan and suspension, Renault called
upon Carrozzeria Ghia of Italy to create a unique, glamorous new
body. The car was a hit from the moment it first appeared at the
1960 New York auto show, and production continued through the 1968
model year. This charming and wonderfully presented example was
originally delivered to Europe and carries the Floride name that
was used only until 1962 when it was dropped in favor of
"Caravelle." Finished in a delightful color scheme of powder blue
over a red and gray interior, the color palette reflects the period
in which it was produced and enhances the handsome Italian styling.
Notable details include the rare, desirable and correct Cibie
Optique concave headlamps and a lovely set of silver painted
Robergel wire wheels accented with stainless steel center caps
wrapped with period-correct wide-whitewall tires, which bring a
touch of glamor. According to the most recent owner, this car was
in long the long-term care of Radio Star founder Rene Baldaccini of
Marseille, France. The most recent owners acquired it in 2009,
commissioning a sympathetic, high-quality restoration of this
French jewel shortly thereafter. The powder blue paint shows well
and the body is straight and crisp. Chrome and stainless are shiny
and bright, and there is a small repair on the front bumper that
can be seen on close inspection. Above all, it looks to have been
driven sparingly and well-maintained in a loving home since it was
imported (appropriately) to Florida by its owner in 2011. The
two-tone red & gray leatherette interior is in excellent condition
and is a treat for the eye. Remarkably spacious and comfortable,
the cockpit of the Floride is a wonderful place to be. A vintage
St. Christopher medal, said to protect travelers, is affixed to the
glovebox door adding another touch of character to this lovely
French convertible. This car has a black convertible soft top
(renewed during the interior restoration), as well as the optional
removable hardtop finished in black providing a pleasing contrast
the main body color. The factory owner's manual and copies of the
French registration certificate accompany the car. A look
underneath reveals a very clean and rust-free floor pan, clean
suspension and mechanical parts consistent with the level of
quality and age of the restoration. Beneath the rear-mounted hood
sits an 845 cc engine in the desirable Gordini specification, rated
for 45 horsepower. The engine compartment is tidy and
well-detailed, inviting regular use, while also being appropriate
for casual show. It is easy to be captivated by the Floride's
abundant charm. The colors, style, and glamour of this petite
French machine are irresistible, and it is an absolute pleasure to
drive - evoking images of a relaxed cruise along the C�te d'Azur. A
Renault Floride is a car that is seldom seen at car events, and one
that is in this condition with these options and colors rarely come
for sale, creating a unique opportunity for the astute collector
that desires a usable, stylish 1960s runabout. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7506-1960-renault-floride/
