1954 Autobleu 750 Mille Miglia

Offered for sale is this 1954 Autobleu Mille Miglia, named after the legendary 1000 km race through Italy that it participated in. It is an incredibly rare find, boasting both provenance and style in equal measure. A short-lived but influential French automaker in Paris, Autobleu was established in 1950 by Maurice Mestivier and Roger Lepeytre, at first as a manufacturer specializing in upgraded Renault 4CV tuning components, specifically geared for more power and speed.

The successful sales of the competition specification parts for other manufactureres is what allowed them to build their first race car, this Model 750 Mille Miglia. The company itself lasted as an automobile manufacturer only through to 1957, but continued to make both competition and original equipment parts for cars until 1971. This all too short existence makes the 750 Mille Miglia the crown jewel for the company.

This prototype racer is finished in French Racing Blue, with an unpainted metal interior with black vinyl seats. It is built on a tubular chassis with a light alloy body developed by the aerospace engineer Marcel Riffard and built by Carrosserie G.T.R. It has a 750 cc Renault engine, running power to the rear wheels through a four speed manual transmission. The Autobleu comes with extensive service and restoration documentation, as well as contemporary newspaper clippings showing the car at races and events. 

This dedicated race car's documented history included its participation in the Mille Miglia in the years 1954, 1955 and 1956, driven by Jean Bianchi. It also ran in the 12 Heures Internationales de Reims in 1956, finishing 11th, and its last known race being the Coupe de Belgique in 1964.

The Autobleu was owned by multiple French collectors during its life after racing. It was then sold to a German enthusiast, who then sold it to the current Dutch owner, who ran it in the 2016 Mille Miglia.

According to the seller, the body was taken off the chassis and repaired where necessary. The chassis itself needed only cleaning. The engine, drivetrain, suspension and brakes were rebuilt. The work is well documented, with pictures and invoices totaling around €100.000 Euro. The body was then refinished in the color originally applied to the car. After being restored to its 1955 specification, the car was revealed at the 90th anniversary Mille Miglia exposition in Brescia. Soon after, the car was entered in the 2017, 2018 and 2022 Mille Miglia endurance race.

Since that time, the 750 MM has been maintained and properly taken care of. It remains in very good working condition, and would be an excellent and unique addition to any collection.

Additionally, and best of all, the Autobleu is already entered in the 2024 Mille Miglia, and the buyer can enjoy the event with this unique piece of art.

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