1912 Renault Type CE Limousine

Lot details
Registration No: D 8445
Chassis No: 33369
Mot Expiry: None

'Kellner coachwork was always executed in an impeccable fashion and their design, of classic inspiration, was elegant in its sobriety' - fellow master coachbuilder Jean Henri-Labourdette

Renault's Type CE was produced between 1910 and 1912 and powered by a sizeable four-cylinder engine of 5026cc that developed its maximum power of 22bhp at a suitably leisurely 1,200rpm. The splendid open-drive, formal limousine example on offer is understood to have been ordered by colliery owner Sir Henry Markham for his wife Lady Lucy Markham while attending the Paris Salon of 1911. Once available, the chassis was entrusted to Kellner, the distinguished French coachbuilder founded by harness maker Georges Kellner as far back as 1860. Craftsmanship of such quality was a time consuming business, and it was not until September the following year that the completed Renault was delivered to the Markham family residence of Blatchborough Park, Shorncliffe, Kent. As befits such a splendid carriage, the stately Renault is believed to have transported some of the most eminent Britons of the period. According to the celebrated motorcar collector and subsequent owner of 'D 8445', George Milligen, they included the Prince of Wales (subsequently King Edward VIII) and the then Prime Minister Lloyd George.

Apparently in 1950 the Renault was discovered in Oliver's Garage, Hawkhurst Kent by the Rolls-Royce historian Wilton J Oldham. Subsequent keepers are understood to have included the well-known veteran car collector Norman Cole, following whose death in 1982 it briefly passed to his daughter, Mary Kendall-Tory. George Milligen is said to have purchased it from another renowned collector, Harry Smith, in the Autumn of 1984. Now, nearly 30 years later, the stately Renault remains in remarkably original condition and the vendor currently regards the bodywork, engine and three-speed transmission as "good" and the Maroon paintwork and the Black leather (front) and Grey cloth (rear) trim as "fair". Stated to be a joy to drive and eminently usable, this wonderful Edwardian motorcar would enhance any collection and undoubtedly be welcomed at any concours event in the land.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle does not have an MOT.