Description

The Alpine Renault A310 1600 VE was an early version of the A310, introduced in the early 1970s as a successor to the legendary A110. Designed as a more refined and practical sports car, the A310 retained Alpine’s signature lightweight fiberglass body and rear-engine layout while incorporating a more angular and modern design. It was intended to be a high-performance grand tourer with improved comfort and usability compared to its predecessor.

Powered by a 1,605 cc inline-four engine derived from the Renault 16 TS, the A310 1600 VE produced around 125 horsepower. This engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, allowing for smooth power delivery and engaging driving dynamics. Despite its increased size and weight compared to the A110, the A310 remained nimble and quick, thanks to its aerodynamic design and lightweight construction.

The chassis featured a steel backbone frame, providing structural rigidity while keeping weight to a minimum. The suspension system, consisting of independent double wishbones at the front and rear, was tuned for both handling precision and ride comfort. The braking system included disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring reliable stopping power.

Visually, the A310 1600 VE was characterized by its wedge-shaped body, pop-up headlights, and large rear glass panel, giving it a distinctive and futuristic appearance. The interior was designed with comfort in mind, featuring improved seating, a more refined dashboard layout, and increased cabin space compared to earlier Alpine models.

Although initially overshadowed by the A110 in terms of racing success, the Alpine Renault A310 1600 VE played a key role in Alpine’s transition to a more road-focused sports car lineup. It remains a sought-after classic today, appreciated for its unique styling, engaging performance, and connection to Alpine’s motorsport heritage.