This stunning Alpine Renault A110 in blue livery proudly displays the number 3 that made it famous at the 1972 snow and ice rally. Faithfully reproduced at 1/43 scale, this model captures the very essence of the golden age of French rallying, when Alpine dominated snowy stages with unmatched mastery.
A true collector's item for car and motorsport enthusiasts, this reproduction pays tribute to one of the most talented duos of the time: Bernard Darniche and Alain Mahé, who left their indelible mark on the history of French rallying.
Miniature Specifications
- Model: Alpine Renault A110
- Brand: Alpine Renault
- Year: 1972
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Blue with number 3
- Configuration: Snow and ice rally
- Protective case included: Yes
The Alpine A110, queen of rallies
Launched in 1961 by Jean Rédélé, the Alpine A110 revolutionized the world of French motorsport. This lightweight berlinette, weighing in at just 700 kilograms, adopts a radically different philosophy from its competitors: rather than prioritizing raw power, Alpine focuses on agility and balance. The rear-positioned Renault 1300 cm³ engine gives the A110 a unique handling, particularly suited for twisty roads and challenging conditions.
The polyester bodywork of the A110 represents a major innovation for the time. This modern material achieves a featherweight while maintaining sufficient rigidity. The exceptional performance of the Dieppe-made berlinette shines especially during rally events, where its rear-wheel drive and legendary reliability excel on all terrains.
Commercial success quickly follows the sporting victories. The A110 attracts a clientele of discerning amateurs, eager to own a true racing car suitable for everyday use. This duality between road use and racing purpose forges the legendary reputation of the Alpine model.
Alpine Renault: the blue adventure of Dieppe
In the early 1970s, Alpine reached its peak under Renault's aegis, which gradually acquired the Dieppe brand. This period corresponds exactly to the context in which our 1972 A110 was created. Jean Rédélé benefited from the technical and financial support of the company, while retaining the artisanal spirit that has characterized Alpine since its beginnings in 1955.
The history of Alpine begins in Jean Rédélé's workshop, a Renault dealer in Dieppe passionate about competition. As early as 1952, he entered his own 4CV in races and quickly understood the potential of lightened Renault engines. The official creation of Alpine in 1955 embodies this vision: transforming Renault sedans into formidable racing machines.
The early successes of Alpine were based on the A106 and A108 models, but it is truly with the A110 that the brand attained international recognition. In 1972, Alpine dominated the newly created World Rally Championship for manufacturers, confirming the correctness of Rédélé's philosophy against European giants.
The epic of the 1973 Monte Carlo rally
While our A110 number 3 evokes the snow and ice rally of 1972, it also foreshadows one of the most resounding feats in Alpine's history: the historic triple win at the 1973 Monte Carlo rally. Bernard Darniche, indeed, was one of the key figures in this legendary adventure alongside Jean-Claude Andruet and Jean-Pierre Nicolas.
On January 27, 1973, the three blue A110s crossed the finish line of Monaco together, achieving an unprecedented triple for a French brand in the most prestigious event of the world rally. This victory echoed far beyond the automotive world: it symbolized the revival of the French industry in the face of Anglo-Saxon and Italian dominance.
Bernard Darniche, the driver of our A110 number 3, perfectly embodies the Alpine spirit of that era. This adopted Cévenol masters the art of maneuvering on slippery surfaces like few of his contemporaries. His exceptional technique on snow and ice shines while driving the A110, whose balanced behavior allows for risks that are unthinkable with other cars.
The Darniche-Mahé duo represents one of the most effective pairs in French rallying. Alain Mahé, a precise and unflappable navigator, guides Bernard Darniche to many victories. Their companionship, born on Cévenol roads, transcends the challenges of the most perilous stages, making them formidable opponents on all terrains.
Complete your miniature collection
This Alpine Renault A110 occupies a prominent place in the world of French automobile miniatures. It naturally fits alongside other models from the Alpine Renault collection, allowing for a full recreation of the Dieppe brand's epic. Collectors will particularly appreciate pairing it with other iconic Alpine rally victories.
For fans of rally cars, this A110 is an authentic witness to the golden age of the discipline. It pairs perfectly with miniatures from the 1970s, a booming period for French motorsport. Its distinctive blue livery also makes it an ideal complement to other models from the heroic era of rallying.
This miniature appeals to both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts of French cars eager to possess a testament to this exceptional period. It finds its place in a collection dedicated to French cars as well as among race cars, showcasing the versatility and timeless charm of the Alpine A110.
