Alpine

Research, History, Reviews, Media & More

Model List & Guides / Images & Videos / News & Updates

Alpine (Automobiles Alpine): A Journey Through Time and Innovation

The Birth of Alpine and its Visionary Founder

Alpine, officially known as Automobiles Alpine, is a distinguished French automaker renowned for its sleek, high-performance sports cars and rich racing heritage. The brand was founded in 1955 by Jean Rédélé, a young and ambitious French racing driver and entrepreneur. Born in 1922 in Dieppe, France, Rédélé had a passion for cars from a young age, inspired by his father's Renault dealership. His early career saw him racing modified Renaults, which laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Rédélé’s success in rally racing, particularly his victories in the Alpine Rally, inspired him to create his own line of sports cars. He envisioned vehicles that were not only fast and agile but also lightweight and elegantly designed. This vision led to the birth of Alpine, named after the rally that marked his early success.

Iconic Alpine Cars

1. Alpine A110 (1961-1977)

The Alpine A110, also known as the "Berlinette," is perhaps the most iconic model in Alpine’s history. Introduced in 1961, the A110 quickly gained a reputation for its agility, lightweight construction, and striking design. The car featured a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and was powered by a range of Renault engines. Its success on the rally circuit was unparalleled, culminating in a victory at the inaugural World Rally Championship in 1973. The A110's blend of performance and style has made it a beloved classic among car enthusiasts.

2. Alpine A310 (1971-1984)

The Alpine A310 was introduced in 1971 as a successor to the A110. It featured a more modern design and was initially powered by a four-cylinder engine, with a V6 version introduced later. The A310 was designed to offer a more comfortable and practical sports car experience while maintaining the performance and handling characteristics that Alpine was known for. Although it did not achieve the same level of rally success as the A110, the A310 remains a significant model in Alpine’s history.

3. Alpine GTA/A610 (1984-1995)

The Alpine GTA, later known as the A610, represented a further evolution of the brand. Introduced in 1984, the GTA featured a more aerodynamic design and advanced technology for its time. It was powered by a range of turbocharged V6 engines and offered impressive performance and handling. The A610, introduced in 1991, refined the design and engineering of the GTA, making it one of the most advanced Alpine models of its era. Despite its capabilities, the A610 struggled in a competitive market, leading to Alpine’s temporary hiatus.

The Revival and Modern Era

After a period of dormancy, Renault, which had acquired Alpine in 1973, revived the brand in the 21st century. The rebirth of Alpine was marked by the introduction of the modern Alpine A110 in 2017. This new A110 pays homage to the original Berlinette while incorporating contemporary technology and engineering. It features a lightweight aluminum chassis, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a design that captures the essence of the classic A110. The modern A110 has been praised for its performance, handling, and style, marking a successful return for the Alpine brand.

Alpine's Racing Legacy

Alpine has a rich history in motorsport, particularly in rallying and endurance racing. The brand’s early success in the European Rally Championship and the World Rally Championship cemented its reputation as a formidable competitor. In endurance racing, Alpine has participated in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving class victories and notable overall finishes. This racing heritage continues to influence Alpine’s car designs and brand identity.

Jean Rédélé’s Lasting Impact

Jean Rédélé’s vision and passion for cars have left an indelible mark on the automotive world. His dedication to creating lightweight, high-performance sports cars has influenced generations of car enthusiasts and engineers. Although Rédélé passed away in 2007, his legacy lives on through the Alpine brand, which continues to produce cars that embody his innovative spirit and love for racing.

Conclusion

Alpine’s journey from its founding by Jean Rédélé to its modern resurgence is a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal and commitment to excellence. The iconic cars produced by Alpine, from the classic A110 to the contemporary model, reflect a blend of performance, style, and innovation that has captivated automotive enthusiasts for decades. With its rich history and promising future, Alpine remains a symbol of French automotive artistry and racing prowess.