Renault 4 (France, 1961-1994)

The 4L, Renault's first "voiture à vivre" or "livable car", was based on a simple idea: A versatile, go-anywhere sort of car, convenient for all occasions.

The Renault R4 was presented in July 1961. It was a 5-door vehicle with a tailgate and modular cabin. The rear seat could be tipped forward to turn the car into a van, if required.

This versatile car doubled up as a commercial vehicle, Renault innovated by fitting the car with a roof flap that let users transport long objects not usually carried on this type of vehicle.

The 4L was designed to be both easy-to-maintain and economical. The 747 cc engine and 3-speed gearbox were built to last. At the same time, Renault developed a cooling system requiring no top-ups with anti-freeze. The Renault 4 also did away with lubrication points, thus avoiding regular visits to the garage.

Simplicity became a philosophy, reflected in the appearance of the first vehicles that were deliberately uncluttered. The cabin had a minimalist dashboard with little use of chrome.

In 1963, Renault joined forces with women's magazine Elle to launch a campaign entitled "She (Elle) takes the wheel".  A total 4,200 readers test drove a 4L – a version called the Parisienne – for 48 hours. The bodywork was black with straw-colored "canework style" painted door handles.

Renault then went to produce more luxurious, urban models

Produced in more than 8 million units and exported to more than 100 countries, the Renault 4 ended its career on December 21, 1994.

Today, the Renault 4 continues to be coveted by collectors all over the world.