Renault Sport Spider-1998

Looking at the Spider, you will see that it is a completely different car from the other Renaults you have seen.  It is a stark open 2-seater similar to the Lotus Elise.  The engine is mounted transversely behind the driver.  It has an aluminum frame and a fiberglass body.  As this car was designed for a successful single marque race series in Europe, it carries no creature comforts such as heat, air conditioning, radio, or side windows.  In fact, in Europe the windshield was an extra-cost option.  The windshield, as on this car, was developed for the United Kingdom market, and could be ordered for street-going, left-hand drive cars.

 

The upswing doors and recaro seats give it tremendous “curb” appeal.  It was made in the former Alpine Factory in Dieppe and was available only in blue, silver, red, and the yellow you see here.

 

Specifications:

 

Manufacturer:  Régie Nationale des Usines Renault

Country of Origin:  France

Drivetrain Configuration:  Transverse mid-engine, rear wheel drive

Engine:  1998cc, 16 valve, 4 cylinder, 150 hp

Transmission:  5 speed

Top Speed:  135 mph

Years of Production:  1997-99

Number Produced:  4,000

Original Cost:  1998 – $33,448.00

  2010 – $51,699.00