Renault Caravelle

vs

Renault Sport Spider

France vs France — 1962 vs 1995

Renault Caravelle (1962)
Renault Sport Spider (1995)
Specifications
Caravelle 1100S ConvertibleSport Spider Standard
Horsepower55 hp150 hp
Torque61 lb-ft140 lb-ft
Engine Size1,108 cc1,998 cc
0-60 mph17.0 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed90 mph124 mph
¼ Mile20.5 sec15.0 sec
Weight1,830 lbs2,050 lbs
Wheelbase2,270 mm2,360 mm
Length4,280 mm3,770 mm
Units Produced117,0001,685
Original MSRP$2,100
Value (Excellent)$35,000$70,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity6/108/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Renault has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible with the 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 55 hp, a 95-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault Caravelle uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,108 cc, while the Renault Sport Spider relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 17.0 seconds. The Renault Caravelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 220 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,685 units built, the 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard is considerably scarcer than the Renault Caravelle's 117,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1995 Renault Sport Spider Standard commands a significant premium over the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.