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Renault Fregate
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1951 - 1960 |
Country: |
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Engine: |
4 cyl. OHV |
Capacity: |
1996 cc |
Power: |
62 bhp / 46 kw |
Transmission: |
4 spd. man |
Top Speed: |
137 km/h |
Number Built: |
n/a |
Collectability: |
|
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Most commentators of the day felt
the Fregate was Renaults attempt to move "up market",
an ambitious attempt given the company was still under
the control of the French Government following its
incestuous relationship with the 3rd Reich.
Launched at the end of 1951, many "models" of
the Fregate would emerge during the cars production
life, including the Fregate (1951-52), Fregate Affaires
(1953-55), Fregate Amiral (1953-58), Fregate 2 liter
(1956-56), Fregate Grand Pavois (1956-58), Fregate
Caravelle (1957-57) and finally, the Fregate Transfluide
(1959-60).
The car was first fitted with a 1.996 ci engine producing
62 bhp (46 kw) , and in 1954 the compression ratios were
raised (subsequently increasing the performance of the
motor).
The pretty Fregate Caravelle model of 1957 was arguably
the best of the lineup, coming equipped with a 2.141 ci
engine producing 77 bhp.
Most people, however, will remember the Fregate as the
last of the front-engined, rear-drive cars made by Renault. |