Renault Primaquatre
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Renault KZ series |
| Founded | 1931 |
| Defunct | 1941 |
| Headquarters | Boulogne-Billancourt , France |
| Products | Mid-sized cars |
The Renault Primaquatre represents a mid-sized vehicle manufactured by Renault between 1931 and 1941, standing as the last model designed prior to Louis Renault's passing in 1944.
First Generation
Debuting on 29 December 1930 under the designation Type KZ6, the Primaquatre was developed as an evolution of the KZ series. It was equipped with a 2120 cc four-cylinder engine producing 35 horsepower at 2900 rpm, achieving a maximum velocity of 100 km/h. The powertrain delivered torque to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual transmission without synchronization.
Significant model revisions included:
- 1932: Introduction of the Type KZ8, which offered a broader body compared to the Renault Monaquatre.
- 1933: Launch of the Type KZ10, which extended the vehicle’s length from 3700 mm to 3900 mm alongside an engine power increase.
- 1933: Release of the Type KZ11, a limited run of 2400 units tailored specifically for G7 taxi operations.
- 1934: Presentation of the Type KZ18, with a length surpassing 4000 mm.
- 1935: Arrival of the Type KZ24, measuring 4150 mm long and 1600 mm wide.
These successive versions illustrate Renault’s approach to broadening its mid-size lineup to serve both individual customers and commercial clients.
Second generation
In January 1936, Renault unveiled the New Primaquatre (Type ACL1), powered by a 2383 cc (14CV) engine capable of delivering up to at 3200 rpm.
Production continued with models ACL2, BDF1, BDF2, and BDS1 until mid-1940, when passenger car manufacturing in France largely ceased due to the German occupation. Updates in late 1937 introduced Renault’s mechanical brake servo system and centralized fuel filler access to a single port on the right rear panel.
The final iteration, known as the Sport (Type BDS2), was equipped with a 2.4-litre engine generating , while the BDF2 variant provided an enhanced output of . In 1940, Lockheed hydraulic brakes replaced earlier cable-operated drum brakes, significantly improving braking efficiency and safety.
Types
First generation:
- KZ6
- KZ8
- KZ10
- KZ11
- KZ18
- KZ24
Second generation:
- ACL1
- ACL2
- BDF1
- BDF2
- BDS1
- BDS2
Characteristics
- Maximum speed:
- Engine power ratings: , , ,
- Braking system: initially cable-operated drum brakes, later upgraded to Lockheed hydraulic brakes
- Electrical system: 6 V battery