30s low-cost
Celtaquatre (ZR2)
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RENAULT’S
RESPONSE TO
THE TRACTION
RENAULT’S
RESPONSE TO
THE TRACTION
In 1934, Citroën launched its Traction Avant 7CV. Renault’s response: the launch, just two days later, of its new 8CV that would become its next entry-level model: Renault Celtaquatre. These two cars, although very different had one thing in common: they were similar in price and highly competitive!
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spirit
AN
INSTAGRAMMABLE
FIGURE
AN
INSTAGRAMMABLE
FIGURE
At a time when aerodynamics were the prevailing trend in automotive design, Renault Celtaquatre opted for smooth, round lines. Its curves even inspired the nickname given to early versions of the Renault Celtaquatre, the Renault Types ZR1 and ZR2, affectionately known as the “Celtaboule” (Celtaball).
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interior
EXPERIENCE VS.
NOVELTY
EXPERIENCE VS.
NOVELTY
While Citroën pinned all its hopes on the Traction, Renault Celtaquatre was a rear-wheel drive. Renault thus stuck to tried-and-tested techniques and mechanical systems, bucking the trend set by the competition. Indeed, Renault’s sales documents from that time promoted these reliable technologies, lauding Renault Celtaquatre as a “car with experience”, a jibe at Citroën Traction's early reliability issues.
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original soundtrack
LISTEN TO
THIS PLAYLIST
LISTEN TO
THIS PLAYLIST
A sound that sent it to the top of the charts! Renault Celtaquatre had that kind of keenness that proved she knew what she was doing.
style
EACH TO
THEIR OWN
EACH TO
THEIR OWN
Initially available as a saloon, Renault Celtaquatre was gradually adapted to produce coupé, convertible and coach versions. Renault also marketed a very basic, stripped-down version called Celtastandard. This early low-cost vehicle came at an even more attractive price , at some 15% cheaper! Finally, Renault designed a taxi version to make up an inexpensive Parisian taxi fleet offering “half-price” fares.
technical features
REAR-WHEEL
DRIVE
REAR-WHEEL
DRIVE
- production
67,870 units from 1934 to 1938
- Performance and engine
4 cylinders inline, 1,463 cm3, 34 hp
3-speed gearbox + reverse
100 kph
- dimensionsLength from 3.80 m to 4.20 m, depending on versionWidth 1,55 mHeight 1,59 m
- architecture
front engine, rear-wheel drive
bodywork with wooden structure built on a separate chassis
The Originals Store
COLLECTOR
APPEAL
COLLECTOR
APPEAL
In honour of Renault Celtaquatre – not only a rival for the Citroën Traction but also one of the first to apply the principles of aerodynamics – take your pick from our range of merchandising.
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