Description
The Alpine Renault A210 was a purpose-built endurance racing car developed in the 1960s to compete in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Designed with aerodynamics and efficiency in mind, the A210 featured a sleek, low-slung fiberglass body that reduced drag and maximized high-speed stability. The car’s lightweight construction and mid-engine layout contributed to its balanced handling and competitive performance in endurance racing.
Powered by a range of Renault-Gordini inline-four engines, typically between 1.0 and 1.5 liters, the A210 produced between 90 and 135 horsepower. While not the most powerful in its class, the car’s exceptional aerodynamics and low weight allowed it to achieve impressive speeds while maintaining fuel efficiency, a crucial factor in long-distance racing. A five-speed manual gearbox provided smooth and precise shifts, optimizing power delivery on the track.
The suspension was designed for endurance racing, featuring independent suspension on all four wheels to ensure stability and control at high speeds. The braking system was also upgraded with disc brakes to provide consistent stopping power during long stints.
The Alpine Renault A210 was highly successful in endurance racing, regularly competing in the Index of Performance category at Le Mans, where efficiency and reliability were just as important as outright speed. Its success helped establish Alpine’s reputation in motorsport and paved the way for future developments in lightweight racing car design. Today, the A210 remains a significant piece of Alpine’s racing history, admired for its innovative engineering and achievements in endurance racing.