The Renault 10 is a larger and – for many – a more beautiful version of the Renault 8. The two models shared the same platform and had many common features.
An attempt to create a mid-range car
The Renault 10 was launched in 1965 as a slightly larger and more stylish model than the compact Renault 8. Renault wanted to fill the gap between the Renault 8 and the Renault 16. They had already started designing a completely new model – the Renault 12 – but it would take several years before it was ready for production. One solution was to create an elongated and more expensive version of the compact Renault 8. The Renault 10 was to fill the gap in the model range until the Renault 12 could be shipped to dealers.
The two models have the same wheelbase and the same amount of space in the cabin. The basic drivetrain in the Renault 10 is the same as in the Renault 8 Major with the 1100 engine. The Renault 10 with this drivetrain was also sold as Renault 10 Major. What makes the Renault 10 a mid-size car is that its length has been increased by 20 cm with larger overhangs at the front and rear. This provided more luggage space. In addition, the Renault 10 received a slightly more lavish interior, and a front and rear section that distinguished it from the Renault 8.
Model history
The Renault 10 was produced from the autumn of 1965 to mid-1971. From the 1970 model year, the Renault 10 could be had with the same 1300 engine as the Renault 12. When production of the Renault 10 ceased in 1971, the demand for mid-range cars could be met by the Renault 12. The Renault 8 remained in production until 1973.
Two series of the Renault 10 were produced. A facelift came after just one year. From the 1967 model year, the cars got rectangular headlights instead of round ones. The taillights were also redesigned and the interior was upgraded. With these changes, the Renault 10 appeared to be a more expensive car than the Renault 8.
Ended up in the shadow of the Renault 8
The Renault 8 has become a cult car – at least in the model's home country, France. They appear at every car show, while the Renault 10 is much rarer to see. It may seem as if it has ended up in the shadow of the Renault 8. In retrospect, one can point out that the Renault 8 was the original design – the original. Both models were active in contemporary motorsport, while the Renault 8 took the most victories in rallying and track racing. This may have contributed to the cars becoming more attractive in retrospect.
As a hobby car
A search for cars for sale in Europe yields the following price picture:
- €4000 – Doable, simple project.
- €6000 – Approved cars.
- €7500 – Survivors or lightly restored cars.
- €10000 – Restored cars.
- €15000 – Built for rally/exhibition.
About the pictures
The car with the Norwegian registration number was photographed in the center of Gran. The red car was photographed at a car show in Perpignan, France. This is a pre-facelift car.
Click on an image to view in a larger format.
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