1909 Renault Type AZ 12/16 HP Landaulette - Stunning Edwardian motorcar

1909 Renault Type AZ 12/16 HP Landaulette

Chassis Number: 15067
Registration Number: BF4907

The Renault 12CV Type AZ was launched in 1909 as a mid-sized vehicle in the Renault range, similar to the famous Type AG Taxi de la Marne but with a 2.4 litre 4-cylinder version of the engine. The mechanical specification was typical for the period: magneto ignition, thermo-syphon cooling, dashboard mounted oiler, 3-speed gearbox driving the rear wheels via a shaft, semi-elliptic springs front with three quarter rear, foot operated transmission brake, and a handbrake acting on the rear wheels.

This example is an original UK market car sold by the local Renault Frères concern to F.W. Lucas of London on 5th March 1909, who bodied it with its delightful landaulette coachwork. The car's early history is, unfortunately, mostly unknown although it was originally registered in Kent with the registration KN18 (sadly separated from the car by a previous owner), and was dated by the Veteran Car Club during 1947 (Certificate No. 28, apparently). At some point after that, it was exported to America before being re-imported in 1990 and, since then, has passed through a number of collections, including that of the well known Edwardian motorcar collector Tony Stephens, who was responsible for coach-painting it in its original livery of green with yellow coach lines, and re-trimming the passenger compartment in ivory damask with floral brocade details, as well as the driver's compartment in black leather. More recently the engine has been thoroughly overhauled by Henal Engineering Ltd of East Sussex, along with fitting a period Zenith carburettor and a rather less period (but discreet) battery and starter motor. Otherwise, the car is believed to be largely original and well cared for, rather than over-restored.

Still presenting beautifully, the car is running and driving well, starting easily on the handle, and even the oiler works perfectly. For an Edwardian, it is simplicity itself to operate with conventional controls and little faff (i.e. just a simple hand throttle rather than multiple ignition/mixture adjustment levers). Cruising in third at 35 mph is eminently possible, and first and second gears are well suited to climbing hills of various degrees. All of the usual brass accoutrements are present and correct, although the headlamps do require some attention (an electric conversion has been removed but the acetylene not re-instated).

Only for sale due to an unexpected change of plans. Please contact me to discuss this wonderful car or arrange a viewing. Larger and additional photographs available on Flickr (copy and paste URL): https://flic.kr/s/aHsmWqNCuQ

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