Alpine A 310 classic cars for sale

History of the Alpine A310

Development of the Alpine A310 began in 1968 under Jean Rédélé with the intent to rival Porsche’s sports cars. Unlike its predecessor, the A110, the A310 was designed with greater driver comfort in mind, featuring two emergency rear seats inspired by German competitors. Early units were constructed in Rédélé’s own home due to space limitations at the Dieppe factory. The debut prototype appeared at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971, marking a shift in Alpine’s engineering approach towards more comfort without abandoning the brand’s racing essence. The A310’s production was entirely artisanal, with each car demanding extensive hours of skilled handwork. Success in rallying, particularly in 1977 with a French Rally Championship win, cemented the A310’s place in French motorsport. In 1978, Renault completed its takeover of Alpine, marking the end of independent Alpine rally efforts.

Model Development and Evolution

The Alpine A310 succeeded the lightweight A110, sharing many underlying engineering principles, like the use of a tubular backbone chassis and rear-mounted engine. Initially offered only with a four-cylinder engine (borrowed from the Renault 16 TS), the A310 failed to attract the intended sporty clientele, as it was outshined by the lighter, more agile A110. In 1976, the introduction of the V6 engine, based on the PRV block, transformed the model’s reputation and sales figures. Production continued until July 1984, after which the Alpine GTA took over. Special racing variants such as the A310 V6 Pack GT Kit Boulogne briefly crowned the series with limited production and enhanced output.

Highlights and Unique Features

The A310’s lightweight fibreglass body reinforced with a central backbone chassis led to an extremely stiff and lightweight structure (frame just 135 kg). Motorsport heritage is reflected in the Group 4 and 5 kits, wide fender kits, and vibrant racing liveries like Calberson. Racing preparation often included upgraded Weber carburettors, racing suspension, and strengthened brakes from models like the Renault 5 Turbo. The A310 offered rare equipment like FIA-homologated roll cages, Lexan/Plexiglas windows, and racing seats with multi-point harnesses.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectors' Models

Among the rarest A310 iterations is the V6 Pack GT Kit Boulogne, produced only between 1983-1984 in as few as 27 units. These models featured engine enhancements reminiscent of Group 4 GT racers for higher top speeds and were visually distinguished by broader bodywork and aggressive aerodynamic kits. Historic racing setups—fitted with FIA-compliant gear, original racing liveries like Calberson, and well-documented provenance—are particularly valued, especially those certified with ASI Gold Plaques or ACI SPORT HTP eligibility for historic racing.

Engine, Transmission and Driving Experience

The Alpine A310’s handling character is defined by its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, offering a unique combination of mid-engine feel and tail-heavy responsiveness. Early four-cylinder models delivered lively but modest power, which was rectified with the later PRV V6 installations. Tuned race versions (some up to 220 PS) relied on high-revving engines, advanced carburettors, and reworked cylinder heads. Transmission options evolved from 4-speed to more robust Renault-derived 5-speeds, and specialised racing builds could integrate dog-leg gearboxes and self-locking diffs. Suspension upgrades with Eibach springs, Spax or adjustable dampers, and reinforced brakes enhanced agility on road and rally circuits. Popular A310 models include the PRV V6 (2,664 cc and 2,849 cc), notable for their use of racing-style Weber carburettors, racing seats, and extensive lightweighting. The A310 V6 Pack GT Boulogne, with widebody kit and higher power output, represents the pinnacle of the series for driving enthusiasts.

Design: Exterior, Interior and Special Features

The A310’s body, hand-formed from fibreglass, adopted bold aero cues for the era, refined in wind tunnels for minimal drag. Eye-catching features include plastic headlight covers and optional widebody fender kits (especially on Group 4/5 or Boulogne variants). The Calberson livery is iconic among French motorsports enthusiasts. Regularly trimmed interiors use rich velour fabrics (dark blues among the most typical), supplemented with specially colour-matched dashboards and door cards. Period upgrades range from BBS or Gotti split alloy wheels to Lexan racing windows. The driver’s environment can be heavily motorsport-focused, with mounted roll cages, rally instruments, and five- or six-point harnesses. Road and competition versions alike can feature modernised electrical systems and auxiliary cooling solutions.

Other Noteworthy Features

Restorations are complex and typically entail a complete teardown, with sandblasting and powder-coating of the backbone chassis. Original and aftermarket technical upgrades are common, especially to meet historic motorsport regulations. Redundant or competition-prepared A310s often include original mechanicals as spare parts. ASI Gold Plaque certification and ACI SPORT HTP eligibility are available to well-preserved and authentic examples, enabling use in sanctioned historic competitions.

Summary

The Alpine A310 blends French engineering flair with motorsport experience, articulated through a rear-engine fibreglass-bodied coupe that gained recognition in both rally and road settings. Its evolution from four-cylinder beginnings to potent V6 race variants, and its unwavering focus on performance, makes every A310 unique to drive and own. Dedicated craftsmanship and limited production numbers define its exclusivity, with specialist and competition-tuned models standing at the summit of desirability for collectors and driving enthusiasts.