Introduced in 1964, the Renault 8 Gordini 1100 (R1134) proved a formidable competition car taking first, third, fourth and fifth places on that year’s Tour de Corse.

Derived from its Renault 8 Major sibling, the newcomer featured a beefed-up front crossmember, additional engine mount and reinforced sills not to mention a higher-geared steering rack, lower springs and twin shock absorbers for the rear axle.

Living up to his ‘Le Sourcier’ nickname, Amedee Gordini effectively doubled the horsepower of the four-seater’s Cleon-Fonte 1.1-litre OHV engine via a reworked cylinder head and twin Solex carburettors (later supplanted by Webers).

With some 95bhp / 72lbft on tap, the rear-wheel drive sports saloon boasted a four-speed close-ratio gearbox and four-wheel disc brakes.

Closer in performance to a Lotus Cortina MK1 than a Mini Cooper S, the Renault 8 Gordini 1100 could only be had in French Blue with dual White racing stripes.

Distinguishing itself on the Rallye de Lyon Charbonnieres...