The Renault marque is one of the oldest in France, and as such was at the forefront of creating beautiful Brass Era automobiles. In 1899, Louis Renault and his brothers, Marcel and Fernand, launched Renault Freres – a company that has remained dominant in the French automobile market. Louis gained engineering prestige by developing a direct drive gearshift mechanism in 1898 for a voiturette that climbed the Montmartre hill in Paris.

Early Renaults featured a distinctive “coal scuttle” hood and a radiator that protruded on each side of the engine. The radiator’s unique position utilized thermo-siphon or convection cooling in which increased temperature provided more circulation and cooling to the engine. This eliminated the need for a water pump.

Renault debuted the Type CB in 1910, and it was available with various styles of coachwork through 1912. The model is best known for the Type CB Coupe de Ville that was famously on board the RMS Titanic upon its sinking in April 1912.

According to a summary of the vehicle’s history on file, chassis 32862 was specially produced by Renault Freres “For USA Colonies and Cuba” and bodied by Brewster & Co. of New York. This example features artillery-type wheels with wooden spokes and iron rims. It has leather fenders, a luxurious passenger compartment, and a minimalist yet elegant dash. The brass headlamps were made by the Vesta Accumulator Company of Chicago, a supplier of electrical equipment and batteries from 1897 to 1964. The subject of a beautiful older restoration, and resplendent in its burgundy and black with red wheels, this stunning Renault offers incredible style and value for discerning enthusiasts.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.