THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Production period
- 1955
- Body style
- Coupé
- Type
- Limited
- Production
- 1–2
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR
Coachbuilding, design & conversions
PRICE & SALES RECORD
Vehicle value
- Original price
- Not documented
- Latest recorded sale
- Not documented
01 / THE STORY
History & context
The Renault Abarth Fregate Boano one-off is a unique and remarkable piece of automotive history, commissioned by Autobleu, a Paris-based company known for producing accessories for the Renault 4CV and distributing Abarth manifolds and exhaust pipes in France. This exclusive vehicle showcases the collaborative spirit between French and Italian automotive expertise. The body of the Renault-Abarth Fregate Boano was designed by Gianpaolo Boano and constructed by Carrozzeria Boano, the coachbuilding company founded by his father, Felice Mario Boano. This collaboration resulted in a distinctive and stylish vehicle that combined French engineering with Italian design flair. Autobleu, known for building both racing and luxury versions of the Renault 4CV, sought to create a unique model under their brand, leading to the development of this one-off Fregate. This car was, in fact, the only Fregate ever sold under the Autobleu name, making it an exceptionally rare model. Autobleu’s history of working with renowned French coachbuilders, such as Henri Chapron, underscores their commitment to high-quality, bespoke automotive craftsmanship. Recently, this one-off Autobleu Fregate, styled by Boano, was discovered in France and underwent a meticulous restoration process. The restoration not only preserved its historical significance but also highlighted the unique design and engineering elements that made this car a standout creation. The Renault Abarth Fregate Boano one-off remains a testament to the innovative spirit and collaborative efforts of Autobleu, Carrozzeria Boano, and Abarth. Its recent restoration ensures that this exceptional vehicle continues to be appreciated as a significant piece of automotive history, showcasing the unique blend of French and Italian automotive artistry.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production
- 1–2
- Production type
- Limited
Design & manufacture
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Renault
- Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
- Boano
- Designer · Candidate
- Gian Paolo Boano
06 / EVENTS & AWARDS
Events & awards
No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 7 photographs
Show 1 more photographs Show fewer photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.
| Reference | Source type |
|---|---|
| Veloce — Abarth e quella Frégate di Boano da 170 km/h www.veloce.it | Specialist automotive history |
| Planète Renault — Frégate coachbuilt derivatives www.planeterenault.com | Marque specialist history |












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