Renault was founded in Paris by three brothers, Louis, Fernand and Marcel, in 1899. Its first vehicle was designed as a prototype by Louis before the company was formed and a few dozens were then built in its little Billancourt workshop.
The 3 1/2 HP came next. It, too, was also equipped with a water-cooled, single-cylinder De Dion engine and soon made its name in the motoring world, one reason being the races it won, including the Paris-Ostend, in the hands of Louis and Marcel Renault.
Engine: 1 cylinder
Capacity: 402 cc
Max. power output: 3,5 bhp at 1500 rpm
Two-speed gearbox
Cardan shaft drive
Max. speed: 45 km/h
Weight: 300 kg
