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http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=116777#3
PARIS Renault is planning to unveil a convertible called the Nepta at the Paris Motor Show. The prototype is a glimpse backward to the prestige Renault enjoyed as a maker of mighty machines back in the 1930s.
At first sight, the 196.8-inch concept looks elegant and simple. But there are some surprises, like the extremely long (146-inch) doors that stretch from the front wheels to the back and open upward gullwing-style. This power-operated mechanism adds a hefty dose of eccentricity to the package. Other interesting touches include 23-inch wheels and boomerang-shaped indicator lights.
Underneath, the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive mechanical base, complete with 3.5-liter V6, comes directly from Renault's partner, Nissan. The engine has been equipped with two turbochargers and is capable of 420 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It is coupled to a seven-speed gearbox.
Inside, the seats are fixed and the steering wheel and pedals can be adjusted. Rear passengers are cosseted from turbulence by transparent air deflectors positioned between the front and rear seats.
What this means to you: It would make a fine Infiniti, but for Renault it's a stretch.
VQ35TT anyone?
PARIS Renault is planning to unveil a convertible called the Nepta at the Paris Motor Show. The prototype is a glimpse backward to the prestige Renault enjoyed as a maker of mighty machines back in the 1930s.
At first sight, the 196.8-inch concept looks elegant and simple. But there are some surprises, like the extremely long (146-inch) doors that stretch from the front wheels to the back and open upward gullwing-style. This power-operated mechanism adds a hefty dose of eccentricity to the package. Other interesting touches include 23-inch wheels and boomerang-shaped indicator lights.
Underneath, the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive mechanical base, complete with 3.5-liter V6, comes directly from Renault's partner, Nissan. The engine has been equipped with two turbochargers and is capable of 420 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It is coupled to a seven-speed gearbox.
Inside, the seats are fixed and the steering wheel and pedals can be adjusted. Rear passengers are cosseted from turbulence by transparent air deflectors positioned between the front and rear seats.
What this means to you: It would make a fine Infiniti, but for Renault it's a stretch.
VQ35TT anyone?
