1908 Renault Type AX Roadster

The Model AX was introduced in 1908 to help further expand the company's market share. These vehicles were much less expensive than the larger Renaults, though still a costly sum at approximately $950. The Type AX had a top speed in the range of 35 mph and had a reputation for its reliability.

This two-seat roadster was delivered to Mr. Henry Salvesen Lathallan of Stirlingshire, Scotland on January 28th of 1909, from the Renault agency R.Y. Dickson of Renfrew Lane in Glasgow. It remained in the Lathallan family's ownership until purchased by B.J. Missmer of Santa Barbara, California, who transported it to the United States.

In 1969, ta restoration was completed. It took the following honors during that year: Most Popular Car at the June HCCA One- and Two-Cylinder National Meet, a First Junior at the AACA Cedar Rapids Spring Meet the same month, an AACA First Senior prize in the fall at the Los Gatos meet and the S.F. Edge Award for Best Restored Foreign Car at Hershey. On May 30th of 1970, the car graced the ramp at Pebble Beach after winning First in Class.

The car is powered by a 1060cc inline two-cylinder engine fitted with a Single Updraft carburetor and produces 7 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drum brakes and transmission brake.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was estimated to sell for $45,000 - $65,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $68,200 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2011