This Renault Turbo 1 (chassis #787) was delivered new in April 1981 in Switzerland to Didier Pironi, the official driver for the Renault brand at the time. Pironi joined Ferrari in 1982 when the Scuderia launched its first Turbo Formula 1, and he discreetly kept this Renault. His widow and manager of his company, Recofi Couture SA, Catherine Larsen, kept the car until 2022 in Switzerland.
This Turbo 1 now has a French registration certificate and a Renault conformity certificate confirming its configuration and matching numbers. It is one of only 15 examples in the world delivered in this rare configuration: 'Iridescent' black metallic with a 'Savane' beige interior. The car has matching numbers and colors.
Still in its original paint, except for the front bumpers and hood, it has become rare to find a Turbo 1 in such original condition and with so few kilometers! This Turbo 1 has only 12,600 certified kilometers, having been long stored and kept in Switzerland by its first owner.
Over €25,000 has been invested in the car over the past year. Work carried out by a specialist includes:
- Engine and gearbox sealing,
- Complete engine restart,
- Brand new complete ignition,
- Revised exhaust,
- Revised turbo,
- Overhaul of all engine peripherals, sensors, and pumps,
- Engine opened, top engine restored,
- Brake system overhaul,
- Technical inspection passed for sale,
- Complete interior and exterior detailing,
The car still has its original Michelin TRX tires, but new tires can be fitted if necessary. An additional steering wheel and gear knob are sold with the car.
This Renault Turbo 1 is still in its original paint, except for the front bumpers and hood. It is rare to find a Turbo 1 in such condition and so well-preserved, with a particularly poignant history and provenance.
Internal reference : AD8102