Offered from the estate of the late Peter Stevens
1911/1912 Renault Type CC Open Drive Landaulet

• Formerly part of a private collection in Holland
• Participant in many VCC and Renault Frères events in both the UK and France
• Fits in a normal sized garage
• Stored for 15 years
• Now running and driving (further recommissioning advised)

Founded by Louis Renault and his brothers Marcel and Fernand in 1898, the company that would become France's biggest automobile manufacturer started humbly enough, with a solitary 1¾hp De Dion-engined prototype. By 1904 Renault was building its own engines - large-capacity fours at first, followed by the AX twin - and in 1908 introduced its first six-cylinder model despite Louis Renault's aversion to such complication. Renault exported many luxury chassis to the USA in the 20th Century's early years, opening a showroom on New York's Fifth Avenue in 1909.

This particular model is built on the Type CC chassis and has a 3,560cc four-cylinder engine, cone clutch and four-speed gearbox. The car was exported new in chassis form to the USA where it was fitted with the formal, town car body by Brewster & Company that it retains to this day. Proudly described as 'Carriage Builders to American Gentlemen', Brewster was the oldest and finest coachbuilder in the United States. Brewster bodywork was noted for its immaculate finish, and William Brewster was uncompromising in his pursuit of perfection: when his firm was taken over by Rolls-Royce of America in 1925, he resigned rather than condone the new regime's use of what he regarded as mass production techniques in the building of luxury automobiles!

This car's history is unknown prior to its purchase by the immediately preceding owner from a private collection in Holland. The body was repainted and the top re-covered in 1997/98, and the car is presented today in generally good condition overall. Unlike the overly tall formal coachwork fitted to many Edwardian cars, this one's body is short enough to fit into a normal garage. The not inconsiderable conveniences of a windscreen and starter motor are the only notified deviations from factory specification.

While in the previous custodian's care, 'HSJ 589' took part in many VCC and Renault Frères events in both the UK and France, including the 100th Anniversary Rally to Paris.

Purchased from a Bonhams' Beaulieu auction in September 2008 (Lot 400) by the car's previous owner. Described then as a lusty performer, the car was offered from the extensive private collection of a knowledgeable enthusiast. It was stored for 15 years but is now running and driving, although some further recommissioning will be required. Featuring the marque's trademark coal-scuttle bonnet and dashboard radiator, this is a fine Edwardian car that would enhance any collection and grace any major concours.