Description
This is lot number 534 in the Bonhams Beaulieu Sale on September 14th, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Limited edition model No. 24 of 26 RHD
One of only 325 Le Mans models built
Gearbox overhaul in 2019
Major service in 2019
Under 25, 000 miles from new
Developed from its successful A310 coupé by Renault's Alpine competition arm, the GTA was produced between 1985 and 1993. Later versions of the A310 had used Renault's 2. 7-litre overhead-cam V6 engine, an enlarged (to 2, 849cc) version of which was chosen for its successor and mounted behind the rear axle as before. Alpine's long-established backbone chassis was likewise retained for the GTA, which featured pretty glassfibre coupé bodywork bonded to the frame in a form of semi-monocoque construction. With 160bhp on tap, the original GTA was no slouch, but the installation of the 2. 5-litre, 200bhp turbo unit elevated it to supercar status, 150mph and 0-60mph in under seven seconds being typical performance figures. Alpine's long and successful competition experience ensured that the suspension was capable of coping with the increased performance. In February 1990 the limited edition Le Mans arrived boasting a more aggressive looking body kit and three-piece BBS-style wheels. The regular V6 GT and V6 Turbo ended production during 1990, while the Le Mans version continued until February 1991, by which 325 had been built.
This rare right-hand drive GTA Turbo Le Mans has had four previous owners and is offered for sale by the last custodian's widow. Considerable refurbishment was carried out in 2019, the gearbox being rebuilt, new suspension bushes fitted and a major service carried out at a cost of £3, 379. A new battery was fitted that same year. The car is offered with a history file, original handbook and a V5C document.
