Renault R8 Gordini 1300
The Renault R8 Gordini was the product of a magical collaboration between Renault and the legendary Italian-French tuner Amédée Gordini, known as 'Le Sorcier' (The Wizard). Gordini took the humble rear-engined Renault R8 sedan and transformed it into a genuine performance car that became a rallying and racing legend in France. The Gordini treatment included a cross-flow cylinder head, twin Weber 40 DCOE carburetors, a five-speed gearbox (unusual for a car of this class), four-wheel disc brakes (another rarity), and revised suspension. The resulting 103 horsepower may sound modest, but in a car weighing just 825 kg with its engine hanging behind the rear axle (providing excellent traction), the R8 Gordini was devastatingly quick on twisty roads. The rear-engine layout demanded respect and rewarded skill, creating a generation of brilliant French racing drivers who learned their craft in Gordini racing series. The iconic Bleu de France paintwork with two white racing stripes became one of the most recognizable liveries in French motorsport. The R8 Gordini remains a revered car in France, where it represents the golden age of accessible, exciting performance motoring.
Rust is the primary concern — check the monocoque structure thoroughly, especially rear engine bay area, sills, and floor pans. Many non-Gordini R8s have been converted — verify serial numbers. Weber carburetors need expert setup. The rear-engine swing axle layout can be tricky at the limit. Parts availability through French specialist networks is reasonable.
11,607 R8 Gordini models were produced. The 1300 replaced the earlier 1100 Gordini in 1966. The car became the basis for highly successful one-make racing and rally series in France.