A French legend in model car
This red 1972 Renault Alpine A310 represents one of the most iconic models in French motorsport. A faithful reproduction at 1:43 scale, this model car perfectly captures the revolutionary spirit of this coupé that marked the 1970s. A true collector's item , it will appeal to Alpine enthusiasts as well as lovers of beautiful French mechanics.
This exceptional piece is a testament to French expertise in sports cars, a period when Alpine rivaled the biggest European brands on the racetrack and on the road.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Alpine A310
- Brand: Renault Alpine
- Year: 1972
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Red
- Protective case included: Yes
The Alpine A310, a revolution in French motorsport
Launched in 1971, the Alpine A310 succeeded the legendary A110 "Berlinette" and marked a new era for the Dieppe-based brand. This boldly designed coupe, designed by Michel Béligond, abandoned the polyester body of its predecessor in favor of a more modern construction. With its 2.7-liter V6 PRV engine developing 150 horsepower, the A310 displayed remarkable performance for the time.
The model stands out with its futuristic silhouette with taut lines and its spacious interior, meeting the expectations of a demanding clientele. Its innovative technical design, with a tubular chassis and optimized weight distribution, makes it a benchmark in the world of European sports cars.
Commercially, the A310 was a notable success with more than 9,000 units produced until 1985, confirming the relevance of Alpine's positioning in the affordable sports coupe segment.
Alpine-Renault, the alliance of sport and industry
In 1972, Alpine experienced a pivotal period in its history. Founded in 1955 by Jean Rédélé, the Dieppe-based brand had established itself as the French motorsport specialist. The gradual acquisition by Renault, initiated in 1971 and completed in 1973, allowed Alpine to benefit from the diamond's industrial resources while retaining its sporting identity.
This Alpine-Renault alliance proved particularly successful in the 1970s. The brand achieved a string of rally successes with the A110, then developed the A310 to attract a wider customer base. Alpine's chassis and aerodynamic expertise, combined with Renault's resources, opened up new technological perspectives.
The year 1972 also corresponds to Alpine's peak in competition, with the domination of the World Rally Championship. This sporting notoriety has a direct impact on the sales of production models, positioning Alpine as the French benchmark in motorsport .
The A310, star of the small screen
The Alpine A310 owes part of its fame to its appearance in the television series "Les Brigades du Tigre" broadcast in the 1970s. Although anachronistic for a series set in 1912, this white A310 has become iconic and has helped to anchor the model in the French collective imagination.
Even more surprisingly, the A310 inspired many fashion designers and creators of the 1970s. Its pure lines and modernity made it a symbol of the aesthetics of that decade, on a par with the creations of Pierre Cardin and André Courrèges. This influence extended far beyond the automotive world to encompass all of the decorative arts.
The car also became the emblem of a certain French Touch in the automotive world, proving that France could rival Italy or Germany in the field of sports design. This international recognition continues today, making the A310 a sought-after piece for collectors worldwide.
Finally, the A310 marked Alpine's entry into the modern era, foreshadowing future collaborations with Renault Sport and the evolution towards ever more efficient models. This symbolic transition makes 1972 a pivotal year for understanding the evolution of French motorsport.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This model car Alpine A310 naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French sports cars. It harmonizes perfectly with the other models in the Alpine-Renault range and ideally completes a selection of French model cars .
Collectors with a passion for the 1970s will particularly appreciate this faithful reproduction of a golden era of French motoring. It sits harmoniously alongside other iconic models such as Citroëns from the same period and contemporary European sports cars.
This model car is aimed at both experienced collectors and novices wishing to start a thematic collection. Its quality of finish and historical authenticity make it a reference piece for understanding the evolution of French automotive design. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the world of sports coupes and racing cars in model car.
