Alpine Classic Cars for Sale

History of Alpine

Founded in 1955 by Jean Rédélé in Dieppe, Alpine built its reputation on the slopes of the Alps and on racing circuits across Europe. Rédélé, a gifted Renault dealer and accomplished racer, launched Alpine after success in the Critérium des Alpes. Early Alpine vehicles evolved from Renault 4CVs with custom gearboxes and streamlined aluminium or glass fibre bodies—the A106 and A108 setting the template for the blend of lightness and innovation that defined future Alpines. By the 1960s, collaboration with Renault grew, culminating in the A110 Berlinette, and Alpine's triumph in the 1971 and 1973 rally world championships. The 1973 oil crisis hit specialist automakers hard, leading to Renault's takeover. Even so, Alpine’s motorsport DNA endured in Formula 2, Formula 1, and Le Mans, alongside cutting-edge road cars built well into the 1990s. Today, Alpine remains one of the most significant names in French motoring history.

Model History

Alpine’s lineup is anchored by the A110 Berlinette (1962–1977), which succeeded the A108 and redefined rally car design. Later, the A310 (introduced 1971) became the next evolution, initially with a four-cylinder before adopting the PRV V6. The 1980s brought the Aerodynamically-advanced GTA, the first Alpine fully developed under Renault, followed by the A610 as the final high-performance evolution. The rare A106 and A108 set early standards for lightweight engineering, while turbocharged variants like the GTA V6 Turbo pushed the limits of French road car performance. Special homologation and international editions, like those made under FASA in Spain or Brazilian-assembled A108s, showcase Alpine’s global reach and adaptability.

Highlights and Standout Features

Alpine vehicles stand out for meticulous hand-built execution, often tailored to individual customer preferences in Dieppe. Their lightweight glass fibre bodies and innovative chassis construction prioritised agility and dynamic handling long before this was commonplace. The A110’s motorsport achievements—double world championship wins and countless rally victories—cement its place at the top of Alpine’s legacy. The GTA and A610 furthered Alpine’s reputation for advanced aerodynamics, being among the lowest drag production sports cars of their era. Notably, homologation specials and Group 4/5 rally variants featured uprated suspension, bespoke chassis setups, and a range of motorsport-inspired modifications.

Market data: The Alpine A110 claims more than half (54.4%) of current supply and an overwhelming 72.2% of demand among Alpine listings, underscoring its status as the marque’s most desired classic. The V6/GTA series follows, with the A310 remaining a sought-after transitional model for enthusiasts wanting the blend between 1970s and 80s engineering.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Rare Collectibles

Several limited Alpine editions stand out—such as the GTA Mille Miles (marking the 35th anniversary in 1989) and the GTA Le Mans, first with a catalytic converter. The A610, especially RHD examples (only 67 made), is highly prized due to the total production of just 818 units. The FASA-built A110 1400 (Spain) and the turbocharged GTA V6 (with 2.4-litre PRV V6) are technically and historically significant. Early A110 variants (1600 VB/SC, 1300VA) and Group 4/5 rally specials are highly collectible for their motorsport ties and bespoke upgrades.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to hand-built nature and reliance on period Renault components, Alpine models can vary significantly in build quality. Fibreglass bodywork requires specialist attention for repairs and originality. Many A110s and A310s have been modified or restored extensively—original examples are scarce and command a premium. PRV V6 engines (esp. used in A310/A610/GTA) can suffer from typical 1980s electronics issues and should be checked for oil leaks or cooling faults. Suspension components and brake systems on earlier cars (especially those fitted for motorsport) may show wear or modifications affecting originality. Unrestored cars may hide corrosion around the steel backbone chassis, especially where fibreglass meets metal.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

Alpine cars are engineered for responsive handling and outright agility. The A110’s all-up weight, often less than 700 kg, gives it a lively cornering feel, while the A310 and later models benefit from the V6’s extra torque (up to 288 Nm on GTA Turbo) and five-speed gearboxes. Sprint and top speeds evolved quickly over the decades, with early A110s comfortably topping 160 km/h, GTA Turbos reaching 240 km/h, and the A610 Turbo capable of 0–100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a 265 km/h top speed. Motorsport editions and rally homologation specials introduced uprated brakes, coilover suspensions, and revised geometry for competitive handling.

Popular Alpine Models:

1. A110 (All series) – benchmark for Alpine handling, famed for low weight and compactness.
2. A310 V6 – a step-up in power with PRV V6, Group 4/5 variants with racing upgrades.
3. GTA V6 Turbo – turbocharged, aerodynamic, among the quickest French GT cars of its time.
4. A610 Turbo – fastest production Alpine, advanced chassis, rare and highly specified. undefined

Design – Exterior, Interior & Special Features

Designers like Giovanni Michelotti imprinted Alpine with a distinctive French take on performance car style. Signature elements: glass fibre construction, low and narrow silhouette, double headlights (A110), integrated aerodynamic fairings (GTA). Alpine Blue remains the marque-defining colour, complemented by unique wheel designs (BBS, Gotti, special central-locking alloys). The interiors evolved from minimalist racing cockpits to comfortably equipped GTs—expect sport or bucket seats, rare steering wheels, custom dashboard layouts, and special trim or audio options. Group homologation vehicles and later models (GTA/A610) featured climate control, premium sound systems, and advanced electronics for their era. Options such as roll cages, reinforced frames, and upgraded harnesses highlight Alpine’s motorsport roots.

Other Noteworthy Information

Spanish-built FASA Alpines and South American models reflect the brand’s international reach, while many Alpines have lived double lives as road and competition cars. Restoration and originality are key value drivers. Many parts (suspension, brakes, engine) are interchangeable with classic Renaults—useful for maintenance, but a point of vigilance for collectors.

Summary

Alpine is synonymous with lightweight engineering, uncompromising motorsport heritage, and a uniquely French design philosophy. The A110 dominates the classic market due to its unmatched rally pedigree, with the A310, GTA, and A610 attracting fans for their blend of performance and comfort. Original examples are rare, modifications frequent, and no two hand-built Alpines are truly the same. For those looking to acquire a piece of rally-bred French engineering, Alpine cars deliver a driving experience that is direct, tactile, and unmistakably their own.