Renault Caravelle
A chic, rear-engined French cruiser designed to capture the spirit of the Riviera.
- Power
- 55 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.8 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$28k
About the Renault Caravelle
The Renault Caravelle, originally launched as the Floride, was developed to bolster Renault's presence in the United States market. Based on the Dauphine chassis, the 1965 1.1-litre model features the 'Sierra' five-main-bearing engine, which provided a significant reliability and performance boost over earlier variants. While not a sports car in the traditional sense, its elegant styling by Pietro Frua at Carrozzeria Ghia made it a popular choice for those seeking continental flair. It remains a charming entry-level classic, noted for its simple mechanicals and distinctive rear-engine handling characteristics.
Renault Caravelle specs
The Renault Caravelle produces 55 bhp (41 kW) and 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.8 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Renault |
|---|---|
| Model | Caravelle |
| Trim | 1.1 |
| Years | 1962–1968 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | France |
| Original price | About $2,300 when new |
| Engine | 1.1-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,108 cc (1.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 55 bhp (41 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 17.8 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 800 kg (1,764 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 69 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Renault Caravelle worth?
A typical Renault Caravelle is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $28,000 (about £8,200 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,300.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Renault Caravelle rarity in CarSpot
The Renault Caravelle is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Renault Caravelle fun facts
- The car was originally named the 'Floride' everywhere except North America, where it was called the Caravelle to avoid offending residents of other US states.
- Brigitte Bardot was the face of the car's early marketing campaign, cementing its image as a stylish accessory for the jet set.
- The 1108cc engine introduced in 1962 was a major technical upgrade, featuring a sealed cooling system and disc brakes on all four wheels—a rarity for small cars at the time.