Bodywork construction and restoration – and a question that arises
Why aren't there more collectors of French classic cars? Is it the language that separates German enthusiasts from French forums? Or simply the availability of parts, which remains a real challenge for the Renault R17 outside of France to this day?
This Renault R17 arrived at our workshop from Berlin in 1974 – with a commission for a complete restoration. The only exceptions were the engine and gearbox, which were in good condition. This meant everything else was on the agenda: bodywork, rust removal, paintwork, interior, chassis, and electrical system.
As is typical for vehicles of this generation, rust had taken its toll. Corrosion claimed many Renault 17s. With the R17, this was no surprise – rust protection wasn't a priority for Renault in the 1970s. What lies hidden beneath paint, sealant, and old repairs only becomes apparent upon exposure. In this French coupé, the bodywork was the dominant factor.
Hardtop coupé without a B-pillar – design and restoration challenge
The Renault R17 is a hardtop coupé without a B-pillar. The rear side windows can be fully lowered; the imposing C-pillar with its characteristic mesh design provides the visual structure. This creates a coupé feel that was unusual at the time – and requires particular attention to door fit, seals, and body rigidity during restoration.
The TS version of the Renault 17 features electronic fuel injection and disc brakes on all four wheels. This technical foundation makes the R17 more appealing today than many of its contemporaries – provided the parts are available. Especially with the Renault 15 and Renault 17, parts availability often determines whether a project progresses smoothly or is repeatedly delayed.
Bodywork, rust removal and interior renovation according to assessment
In our workshops, the body and underbody were thoroughly inspected. Seams, sills, wheel arches, and floor panels – known to be the main areas of damage on the Renault R17 – were exposed and repaired according to the findings. Straightening work, seam sealing, cavity protection, corrosion protection, and paint preparation followed the logic of the findings, not a fixed plan.
The interior, electrical system, and chassis were prioritized after the bodywork. Seats, door panels, dashboard, instruments, switches, carpets, seals, and trim strips all require careful inspection on a rare French classic car. The engine and transmission remained untouched in this project. This clearly defined the project scope and focused resources where they were truly needed.
Having a Renault R17 restored – rare, parts-intensive, worthwhile
Anyone planning to restore a Renault R17, Renault R15, or other French coupé from the 1970s should realistically assess the availability of parts from the outset. Photos of the body, sills, wheel arches, underbody, interior, and engine compartment will help with this initial evaluation.
In our workshops in the Czech Republic, we assess what's feasible – even if parts have to be sourced from France and the search requires patience. Bodywork, rust removal, painting, interior, chassis, and electrical work can only be planned effectively if the condition of the vehicle, the availability of parts, and the budget are all aligned.
