Renault Dauphine Mid-Engined Packs Widebody and VR6

A VW VR6 is the perfect vehicle.

What is it that makes the Renault Dauphine so exciting? What about a stunning widebody kit and a VR6 engine mounted mid-mount? AutotopiaLA’s unique vehicle is sure to be a hit. Although it sounds great, it looks more like a classic Rallye car. What does it take to create a car like this?

The Renault Dauphine began with a completely disassembled vehicle that Justin, the owner, purchased from a desert lot. This forgotten Dauphin had a lot of rust, but not much else. It was the perfect candidate to be completely rebuilt.

Justin had the vision of building a European car with a VR6 engine in the mid-mounts. This build was made possible by the Dauphine shell. Justin began the build by building his own chassis and tube frame that he would place underneath the Dauphine. This build used a 2.8-liter VR8 motor from an MK4 Golf GTI along with its 6-speed manual transmission. Justin also added a limit slip differential for improved cornering performance and impressive burnouts.

This build is remarkable for its incredible fit and finish, especially considering that it was all done by one person. This build is exceptional, from the cantilever suspension to its patinaed exterior. The Renault Dauphine is almost unknown in America which makes it more interesting to see on American roads. It’s great to see Porsche 911s and other familiar vehicles being built, but this strange creation is unique.

This one-of-a kind build stands out in Los Angeles traffic, thanks to its incredible noise and attention to detail.