Bleu Danube

The Renault 4 celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2021. Mass production began tentatively in June 1961, and the world premiere took place on September 21, 1961, at the IAA motor show in Frankfurt am Main. Since the “4L” trim level accounted for the majority of early sales in France, the car soon became known simply as the “Quatrelle.” With this model, Renault initiated the transition of its entire passenger car lineup from rear-engine vehicles to those with front-mounted engines and front-wheel drive. Furthermore, the R4 was the first mass-produced compact car to feature front-wheel drive, four doors, a large tailgate, and a folding rear seat—predating the VW Golf by 13 years. It achieved cult status and global success while still in production. The R4 proved so practical and superior to the competition that, in addition to France, it was manufactured in Angola, Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Ireland, Yugoslavia, Colombia, Madagascar, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, Uruguay, and Zaire. The final 1,000 units were based on the top-of-the-line GTL Clan model and bore the special designation “BYE BYE.” The very last “BYE BYE” went straight to the Renault Museum. A total of 8,135,424 units were produced, making the R4 France’s most successful car. Its mechanical robustness is legendary, and the driving pleasure delivered by its engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes is something that should be included in the design specifications for modern small cars today. Its spaciousness, practicality, reliability, and driving enjoyment made the R4 immensely popular from the 1960s through the 1990s.

This R4 TL was first registered on December 18, 1985. Regarding the car’s history, we only know that ownership changed on October 29, 2013, and July 3, 2023. In June 2021, the vehicle—which was already in quite good condition—underwent an exterior repaint. All trim components and windows were removed for this process; photographic documentation is available. At that time, the odometer showed 66,797 kilometers. It currently reads 73,909 km. The condition of the bodywork prior to repainting, the window seals, and the interior suggests that this figure represents the total mileage, though unfortunately, this cannot be definitively proven. We sold the car to a Berlin-based auto parts supplier in July 2023; at that time, we fitted four new tires and performed a major service. A Danube Blue R4 with blue-and-red checkered seats—*bleu danube*.

We subject every vehicle to a systematic inspection—covering everything from the bodywork and engine to the electrical system. Based on this, we prepare three proposal options. You decide which offer suits you best.

Économie – €13,800
Inspected, roadworthy vehicle in authentic original condition, including “H-plate” (classic car) certification and a mandatory inspection (TÜV) valid until July 2027.

Standard – €16,800
Includes everything in the Économie package plus a service, oil change, new axle boots, new front wheel brake cylinders and brake shoes, and a fresh mandatory inspection.

Suprême – €18,000
Includes everything in the Standard package plus new wax-based cavity and underbody preservation treatment.

We would be happy to send you the details of these three proposals. Alternatively, simply give us a call, and we can explain everything to you personally.