1911 Renault 8 horsepower type AX motorcar
Date made: 1911
Maker: Renault
Description: This motorcar belonged to Mr Wilson James Ashburner, a retired engineer with an enduring interest in all things mechanical.
The vehicle is finished in yellow paint, though there is evidence that it has had other paint schemes in the past. The wheels have wooden spokes and detachable rims. It carries the registration number MN12.
The 8 horsepower Renault was one of the most successful small cars of the pre-First World War era. Whilst not rare in its own right (indeed many examples exist), this vehicle is significant in that it is the oldest surviving Manx registered vehicle. Part of its provenance is provided by early Isle of Man government vehicle registration records. Ashburner was also an interesting character, being something of an artist and a friend of Archibald Knox. The Renault was maintained by Knox 's father William who was also an experienced engineer.
Measurements: overall: 155 cm x 135 cm x 309 cm
Materials: steel, brass, leather
Object name: motorcar
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1990-0326