Alpine A 110 classic cars for sale

History of the Alpine A110

The Alpine A110, introduced in 1962, was developed as a successor to the A108, taking influence from the earlier model but executing changes that shaped its legacy. Born from the vision to create a focused sports car, the A110’s body, crafted from glass fibre, gave it remarkable weight advantages. Under the leadership of Jean Rédélé, Alpine sourced mechanical components from Renault, particularly the Renault 8. Over time, the A110 received significant modifications: the addition of signature double headlamps in 1967, reworked interior, flared arches, new air intakes and a refined tail design. Production took place mainly in Dieppe, although notable licensed builds were executed in Spain by FASA—and, to a lesser extent, in Bulgaria and Mexico. Alpine remained independent during much of the production run; Renault’s acquisition only occurred after the A110's heyday, with the model retired by the time of Renault's full takeover in 1978.

Model history

The A110 started as a two-seat Berlinette sports car, with early models powered by four-cylinder engines from Renault, ranging from 956cc to 1800cc. Early power output hovered around 50 bhp, but performance versions reached up to 175 bhp, especially in the hands of competition teams. The rare A110 Cabriolet, built from 1963 to 1969, drew inspiration from the A108 cabriolet. In the same period, Alpine launched the GT4—a 2+2 configuration with a notchback tail and increased cabin space, aimed at a broader market. The GT4’s fibreglass shell kept weight low, while the French market saw approximately 263 examples produced. Throughout its life, the A110 evolved with mechanical improvements such as the adoption of five-speed gearboxes and a transition to more robust braking systems, a necessity as performance increased.

Highlights and statistics of the Alpine A110

Few cars embody the essence of a road-legal rally machine like the Alpine A110. Its rear-engine layout, low weight and focused suspension delivered extraordinary handling. The A110 became a foundational car for talents like Ove Andersson and was notable for features such as four-point roll cages, Momo steering wheels, and period-correct sports seats as options. Motorsport-spec Weber carburettors and Gotti alloy wheels were sought-after upgrades, while distinctive shades—most notably Alpine Blue—became hallmarks. The A110’s value lies in its authenticity: many vehicles still bear original documentation and even FIVA or ASI certification.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Notable special variants include the A110 1600 S/SC/1600VB, equipped with 127 bhp Renault engines and often upgraded with Weber 40 carburettors and five-speed transmissions. Spanish-licensed FASA models, particularly the 1400 series, featured a 1400cc engine—limited to only 130 units—making them the most powerful and rarest of the Spanish A110s. The GT4, as a 2+2 version, also adds collectability for its unique format and limited production numbers. Motorsport conversions with factory upgrades, additional lights and Gotti wheels are highly valued for authenticity.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While the Alpine A110’s lightness and simplicity are strengths, prospective buyers should focus on corrosion in the steel backbone chassis and the condition of the fibreglass body for previous repairs. The complex interplay between body and chassis can complicate restorations if damage is present. Competition-used cars may have period-specific modifications or stress fractures from motorsport use. Mechanical components are often Renault-derived and not especially rare, but attention should be paid to the originality and quality of any performance upgrades or interior modifications.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The rear-engine/rear-drive layout, short wheelbase and featherweight construction give the A110 an organic, highly communicative driving feel. Depending on the variant, acceleration ranges from sprightly (early 956cc models) to genuinely quick (1600S, 1600SC, and 1400 FASA). Factory five-speed gearboxes and performance carburettors—such as the Weber 40 in the 1600 S—help extract maximum performance. The car’s success in events like the Monte Carlo Rally and Tour Auto demonstrates real-world capability, and race-prepared examples with roll cages and competition seats further underline its motorsport roots. - A110 1600 S: 127 bhp, Weber 40 carburettors, sub-7 second 0-100 km/h, five-speed manual.

• A110 1400 FASA: 1400cc, rare Spanish model, limited to 130 units.
• A110 1250 (1967-1969): 95 bhp, early transition to stronger performance.
• A110 GT4: 2+2 seating, more comfort, same lightweight approach.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The A110 Berlinette is characterised by a glass fibre shell, compact coupe silhouette, and distinctive double headlamps (from 1967). Flared arches and tailored air intakes accentuate the racing intent. Interiors typically feature black upholstery—sometimes with leather trim—and authentic carpets. Early models used classic 4.5x13 steel wheels before the adoption of Gotti alloys. Optional equipment included period sport steering wheels (e.g., Momo Prototipo), extra lighting, and even rally equipment such as additional spare wheels. Paint finishes like Blanc Gardénia (white) and Alpine Blue remain classic, while interiors often retain original dials and switchgear. GT4 models provided a notchback profile and additional comfort.

Other notable features

Original documentation—such as inspection booklets and delivery papers—are valued, as are vehicles with historical certifications like FIVA or ASI. The model’s homologation for historic registrations (H-plates in Germany/ITV in Spain) broadens its eligibility for classic car events and rallies. Sound enhancement options like Abarth exhausts were popular. Motorsport heritage continues to influence collector status worldwide, especially for unrestored or authentically prepared examples.

Summary

The Alpine A110 stands out in the classic car landscape through its low weight, rewarding driving characteristics, and exceptional rally achievements from the 1960s and ’70s. With a range of rare factory and competition models, strong collector interest and clear market dominance both in supply and demand, every A110 on offer represents a piece of motorsport technology and French automotive culture.