The term 'collectible' doesn't mean the same thing to everyone. While certain classic cars are without question worth investing in as collectible cars, certain old vehicles only have appeal for certain people. In France, you still see a fair number of the Renault R4 (also called the 4L) van on the road. This model was produced from 1961 until 1994 during which time over 8 million models would be manufactured. Available in several versions, the 5-door model was by far the most popular as an affordable, practical and reliable family vehicle along the lines of the similarly-sized Citroen 2CV. One of my favourite models of the 4L is the utility version, the F4. It trades the rear passenger compartment for an enclosed cargo space with one large rear door. Some versions had full windows, but this beautiful example I saw recently only had small windows on either side. This type of vehicle, the small white 'utilitaire' van is a common sight on French roads as the tool of choice for businesses as an economical and practical work vehicle suitable for small French towns and roads. I discovered this example in Coucy le Chateau, an old French town with medieval walls and the ruins of a castle and prison. Most of the original site was destroyed during the first and second world wars, but many of the walls that surround the city are still standing. The old Renault 4L may not be medieval, but it looked right at home in this quiet rural town. Parked in front of a Bed & Breakfast, I can imagine this vehicle gets used to make runs to the hardware store and grocery store, as it makes a practical buggy to pick up all sorts of cargo. As with most old cars of this type, the Renault 4L wasn't spotless. As it's not a true collector vehicle, it doesn't spend its days parked in a heated garage. This one probably gets used daily, and there's a good chance the owner would be surprised that I not only stopped to take pictures but am also writing a story about it. That's what's fun about liking cars that don't fall under the traditional 'collectible' heading. I frequently run into vehicles that most people wouldn't give a second look but that really make my day. I'd be happy to add this one to MY collection!
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AuthorWelcome! My name is Paul, and I am an old-fashioned, low-pressure, low-buck car fan with lots of automotive stories to tell! Archives
February 2020
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