1907 Renault 3545 Vanderbilt Racer

1907 Renault 35/45 Vanderbilt Racer

At a time when most cars looked similar, the Renault was most noteworthy for its very sleek sloping nose. The radiator, so prominent on all other cars, was positioned behind the engine and immediately ahead of the driver giving the Renault a unique and instantly identifiable look.

This car was inspired by William K. Vanderbilt Jr. after being impressed with the larger 11-liter Renault he drove while in Europe. The New York sales agency kept on car, Vanderbilt purchased another, then convinced 10 of his wealthy friends to purchase one, too. Powered by a 35/45 horsepower 7.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, the runabout cost an astonishing $8,500 when new. Of the 12 originally produced, 5 are known to exist, including this car, which is alleged to be the New York sales agency car. While being restored in the early 1950s, beneath its rough black paint job the original French racing blue color was uncovered, much of which was preserved as it remains today.

Descriptions & pictures by conceptcarz & hemmings & theoldmotor & owlshead & other