Rare 1950 Renault 4CV Roadster Showcases Artisanal Craftsmanship at DFW Car & Toy Museum

The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, TX, is currently showcasing a rare 1950 Renault 4CV Roadster, a vehicle that stands as a testament to the artistry and innovation of coachbuilt cars. This particular model, with custom coachwork by the Belgian coachbuilder Legros, transforms the Renault 4CV, France's first post-war economy car, into a masterpiece of artisanal craftsmanship.

Featuring hand-formed steel body panels, dual side mirrors, a shortened windscreen, louvered deck lid, and elegant driving lamps, all finished in a rich blue, the Legros-bodied roadster is a sight to behold. Inside, the car's minimalist two-spoke ivory steering wheel and Jaeger instrument cluster, along with an odometer showing just 38,000 kilometers, highlight its exceptional preservation. Powered by an 845cc Ventoux inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transaxle, the roadster remains true to the 4CV's roots as an accessible and agile vehicle.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, underscores the significance of this vehicle, noting its ability to captivate and intrigue visitors. The Renault 4CV Roadster by Legros is part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection, which includes over 200 cars and 3,000 toys and collectibles, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of automotive design and technology.

This exhibition not only celebrates the legacy of the Renault 4CV but also emphasizes the importance of coachbuilt cars in automotive history. These vehicles represent a time when cars were not just mass-produced commodities but also canvases for artistic expression and innovation. The DFW Car & Toy Museum provides an ideal setting for this rare roadster, inviting visitors to explore the rich tapestry of automotive culture and history.