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Renault 142

Created as a proposal for the Renault 9, the 142 Project breaks the codes and is very openly inspired by the Ferrari Rainbow also designed by the Marcello Gandini.

Vehicle Overview

The Renault 142 by Bertone represents an intriguing chapter in automotive design, highlighting Bertone’s distinctive approach and innovative vision. Conceived as a small sedan, the Renault 142 drew heavily from Bertone’s earlier Ferrari Rainbow concept, incorporating several design elements that echoed its predecessor. Externally, the Renault 142 showcased a number of familiar features from the Ferrari Rainbow. The inclined side cut of the rear panel, for instance, was reminiscent of the Rainbow’s design language, as were the rectangular tail lights integrated into this slanted facade. The car also featured a pronounced groove that wrapped around the entire body, a signature element from the Rainbow. Additionally, the wheel arches were designed with geometric precision, further reflecting the Rainbow’s aesthetic. The rear panel of the Renault 142 was particularly notable for its adherence to the Ferrari Rainbow’s design, displaying a strong familial resemblance. The front of the car also borrowed thematic elements from the Rainbow, including a wide, striated protective band that contributed to the car’s robust and dynamic appearance. Despite these innovative design features, the Renault 142 was deemed too avant-garde for its time by Renault management. The bold, futuristic approach of Bertone’s design did not align with the market expectations and practical considerations of the period. Consequently, Renault opted for a more conventional in-house design, resulting in the Renault 9, created by Robert Opron. The Renault 142 remains a testament to Bertone’s ability to push the boundaries of automotive design, demonstrating how visionary concepts can sometimes be too forward-thinking for their era. The design elements shared with the Ferrari Rainbow underscore the continuity of Bertone’s stylistic themes, even as the car’s production aspirations did not materialize.

Technical Specifications

Body

Concept
Year

1978
Make

Renault
Model

142
Coachbuilder

Bertone
Length (mm)

N/A
Width (mm)

N/A
Height (mm)

N/A
Units built

1
Engine Type

N/A
Designer

Marcello Gandini
Make

N/A
Model

N/A
Cylinder Capacity

N/A
Number Of Doors

N/A
Six Month Rate

N/A
Twelve Month Rate

N/A
Date Of First Registration

N/A
Year Of Manufacture

N/A
CO2 Emissions

N/A
Fuel Type

N/A
Tax Status

N/A
Transmission

N/A
Colour

N/A
Type Approval

N/A
Wheel Plan

N/A
Revenue Weight

N/A
Tax Details

N/A
Mot Details

N/A
Taxed

N/A
mot

N/A
Make

N/A
Cylinder Capacity

N/A
Registration

N/A
Year Of Manufacture

N/A
CO2 Missions

N/A
Fuel Type

N/A
Tax Status

N/A
Colour

N/A
Type Approval

N/A
Wheel Plan

N/A
Revenue Weight

N/A

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Renault 142

Vehicle Overview

Technical Specifications

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Renault 142

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Technical Specifications

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