PHOTO What the legendary Dacie 1300 would look like in 2024: the symbol of the Romanian car industry, revived by a French designer

Every Romanian remembers the legendary Dacia 1300, a symbol of the Romanian car industry and a model that many grew up with. But what would this iconic model look like reinterpreted today, with the latest technology? The answer comes in the form of a concept Renault R17 Restomod, created by the French designer Ora Ïto, inspired by the Renault 17 coupe, which itself draws its roots from the famous Renault 12 – the model that was the basis of the Dacia 1300.

The concept put forward by Renault brings to life a part of the history of cars of the 70s, combining it with modern technology, according to Playtech.

Although it may seem like a bold idea to some, the details of this electric coupe bring to mind the classic lines of the Dacia 1300. The reinterpretation not only celebrating the past, but it offers a glimpse into the future of electric mobility.

From Dacia 1300 to Renault R17 Restomod

The Renault 17, on which the R17 Restomod concept is based, was a coupe derived from the Renault 12 sedan, the car that made history in Romania under the name Dacia 1300. In the 70s, the Renault 17 stood out for the his avant-garde. sports design and performance, especially in the TS version. Now, more than 50 years later, Renault is back with a modern reinterpretation of this model, preserving ​​many of its original features.

The Restomod created by Ora Ïto is completely electric, with a 270 horsepower motor and a carbon fiber chassis that reduces weight to just 1.4 tons. This advanced technology, together with a retro-futuristic design, turns the concept into a tribute to Renault’s heritage, but also a step towards sustainable mobility.

Interior: a mix between classic and modern

The interior of this concept affects a combination of classic style and modern technology. The dashboard includes a central screen, surrounded by four rectangular screens, evoking the old analog dials of the Renault 17. The seats retain their original structure, but they are restored in luxurious materials such as satin and boucle, offering an experience that mixes the past and the present. .

Between past and future: an iconic perspective

The collaboration between Renault and designer Ora Ïto is a tribute to 70s design with a contemporary approach. The R17 Restomod is not only a reinterpretation of a legendary model, but also an example of how traditional values ​​can be preserved​​​​​​​in a world of constant innovation. “It was an interesting challenge to visit an iconic vehicle like the Renault 17,” says Ora Ïto, stressing that he wanted to introduce fluidity and style without compromising the original meaning of ‘ model.

This concept also reflects Renault’s strategy of combining tradition with innovation. In recent years, the French brand has rediscovered the spirit of the 60s and 70s, promoting the “Nouvelle Vague” philosophy, characterized by avant-garde and courage.

Dacia 1300 makeover

The Dacia 1300 was the subject of several modernization efforts, but the proposal of the Romanian designer Theodor Ioan Tănase also attracted the attention of the public. His digital project saw Dacia equipped with modern technology, such as video cameras instead of rear-view mirrors and a high-tech interior with modern displays.