2025 Pebble Beach Winner 1910 Renault Type BZ Town Car by Moore & Munger
This 1910 Renault 1910 Renault Type BZ Town Car with Coachwork by Moore & Munger is an exceptionally original preservation class car that took home the French Cup at this year's Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The Renault runs and drives very well and recently completed a 60 mile tour. It retains its lovely original rear compartment upholstery—stuffed with horsehair and hand-embroidered as well as its speaking tube for communicating with the chauffeur. An incredible survivor of its era with a regal look and charm.
Established in 1899 by three brothers, Renault quickly became the largest automobile manufacturer in France. They produced everything from taxis to race cars, and even tanks during World War One. This 4-cylinder 3-liter 1910 Renault Towncar has coachwork by Moore and Munger of New York City. It was built on Renault's short wheelbase chassis, most likely to make navigating the narrow city streets of New York City easier. The distinctive bonnet is due to the radiator's position behind the engine as opposed to in front.
The Renault was custom built for John Jacob Astor IV for use at his summer cottage, Beechwood, in Newport, Rhode Island. He used the car sparingly until his death in 1912 aboard the RMS Titanic. At that point, the Renault was left in the carriage house at Beechwood until it was discovered by George Waterman in the 1930's. From Mr. Watermans collection it passed to Helmut Peitz. It has been carefully preserved in its original condition and offers a look into the life of America's Edwardian-era elite.
The paint, brass appointments, and interior are as they were when J.J. Astor and his second wife Madeleine used the car. One can sit comfortably on the horsehair-stuffed, hand embroidered broadcloth upholstery, close the original shades for privacy, and communicate with one's chauffeur via a "voice tube" connecting the passenger compartment to the driver's compartment.
Price: $149,500
