Renault Monastella
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | February 25, 1899 in France |
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | Automobiles |
The Renault Monastella (Type RY1) was a luxury compact automobile manufactured by Renault between late 1928 and 1933. While it shared its mechanical framework and body designs with the Renault Monasix, the Monastella was distinguished by superior finish quality and enhanced equipment features.
Details and Evolutions
Presented as a premium version of the Renault Monasix, the Monastella made its debut at the 1927 Paris Motor Show. The 8CV variant, equipped with a modest 1476 cc six-cylinder engine, was unveiled at the October 1928 exhibition. It bore the "carrosserie STELLA" emblem, underscoring Renault's strategy to market it as a more luxurious alternative to the Monasix.
At first, the radiator was positioned behind the engine, adhering to Renault’s typical design approach throughout much of the 1920s. However, after introducing the top-tier Renault Reinastella in late 1928, Renault relocated the radiator to a front-mounted position. By the time of the October 1929 motor show, all Renault vehicles including the Monastella featured a conventional front grille, replacing the earlier grille-less "wind-cutter" style and removing the side hood vents that had previously directed airflow to the rear radiator.
In 1931, an upgraded engine producing 33HP was installed in the Monastella alongside a redesigned front grille. Production ceased in 1933 when it was replaced by the Renault Primastella.
Types
- RY1: Manufactured in 1929 with radiator behind engine
- RY2: Produced from 1929 to 1931
- RY3: Manufactured between 1931 and 1932
- RY4: Produced during 1932 to 1933
Characteristics
- Maximum speed: 90 km/h
- Power output: Initially 26 HP (8 CV), later increased to 33 HP (8 CV)
- Braking system: Drum brakes on all wheels operated by cables
- Electrical system: 6 V battery