1921 Renault Unknown 0.7L Petrol · BF 9924

Running costs for a 1921 Renault are highly unusual by modern standards and will depend almost entirely on how the vehicle is used. If kept as a show piece and driven only occasionally to events, fuel consumption from the 748cc petrol engine will be modest in absolute terms, but parts availability is the dominant cost factor — specialist components for veteran Renaults must often be fabricated or sourced from continental suppliers, and labour from a pre-war specialist will be expensive. Road tax for vehicles constructed before 1984 is exempt, which is a meaningful saving, but insurance will require a specialist classic policy.

Realistically, you should budget for an annual maintenance and restoration provision of several hundred to several thousand pounds depending on use, plus event entry fees, storage costs, and the occasional major overhaul. I would estimate annual running costs in the range of £600–£1,500 for occasional use, but this could rise substantially if major component work is required.

Focus your physical inspection on the four areas flagged in the 2022 MOT advisory list, as these are the most likely candidates for immediate remedial work. The steering box free play is particularly important — on a vehicle of this age, steering wear can progress quickly and replacement parts are scarce, so establish whether it has worsened since the 2022 test. The suspension arm pin or bush wear noted as affecting all suspension components should be examined closely; if rubber bushes have perished, replacement with modern equivalents may be straightforward, but fabrication of original-specification parts will be costly. The slight oil leak should be traced to its source to determine whether it is a simple gasket issue or a more serious engine sealing problem.

Beyond the MOT advisories, a veteran Renault specialist should inspect the wooden-spoked wheels for cracking or spoke failure, the magneto or ignition system for spark consistency, the cooling system for corrosion, and the original-pattern braking system for effectiveness — pre-war brakes are dramatically less powerful than modern systems and this is a significant safety consideration. Tyre condition is critical given the advisory on all four tyres in 2022; suitable vintage-pattern tyres are available but represent a notable cost. Finally, check the chassis and body extensively for wood rot if the vehicle retains any original timber framing, and inspect for any signs of crash damage or poor previous restoration work that could compromise authenticity and value.