1977 Almajo (France) - AllCarIndex

Alain Rossignol, an inventive car manufacturer from Auch, France, has designed a unique sports car, the Almajo. This vehicle reflects Rossignol's departure from conventional mass-produced cars to create something distinctly original. Built using mechanical components from the Renault 10, the Almajo combines ingenuity with practicality, resulting in a vehicle that's both aesthetically striking and functionally impressive.

Design and Construction

The Almajo sports car features a distinctive angular front end, which, while unconventional, achieves a harmonious and balanced overall design. The car's structure includes a bolted plastic shell chassis with a rigid build. Notably, the car incorporates butterfly-style doors, adding a touch of flair and practicality.

The vehicle's lightweight construction is one of its highlights, weighing in at just 650 kg. This allows it to reach speeds of up to 135 km/h. The Almajo uses a cooling system with a front-mounted radiator and a unique reinforced wiper blade, underscoring its focus on both performance and practicality.

Specifications

The Almajo measures 3.76 meters in length and 1.52 meters in width. It accommodates four passengers comfortably. The chassis is made from folded sheet metal and profiles, supporting a 5 mm thick plywood body covered in fiberglass on both sides. The drivetrain is derived from a Renault 8 or 10, featuring a rear-mounted engine and gearbox that allows the car to achieve its impressive speed.

Construction is designed to be accessible for the moderately skilled DIY enthusiast, requiring minimal special tools other than an arc welding machine and a sheet metal bender.

Materials and Components

The Almajo's components are sourced from various Renault models and other vehicles:

- Engine and Transmission: Renault 8 or 10 engine, rear axle, and suspension components.

- Cooling System: Radiator and fan from Renault 16.

- Interior Features: Seats, gauges, and various switches, including a radio and climate control system from Renault and Fiat models.

- Exterior: Fiberglass and resin for the bodywork, alongside components from Citroën, Simca, and other manufacturers for various small parts.

Chassis Construction

The chassis is built around a custom "marbre" or alignment jig, made from iron profiles, which ensures precise assembly. Key structural elements include:

- Frame: Composed of folded sheet metal and custom-welded profiles.

- Rear and Front Sections: Reinforced with additional profiles and cross members.

- Safety: Incorporates a roll cage and structural reinforcements for added protection.

Powertrain and Suspension

The Almajo's rear-mounted engine is bolted directly to the chassis, supported by modified Dauphine Renault springs to accommodate the car's light weight. The front suspension uses similar components, with options for various wheel sizes to balance performance and handling.

Interior and Controls

The interior of the Almajo features a dashboard designed to accommodate a range of gauges and controls, including speedometers, tachometers, and oil pressure indicators. The control layout allows for easy operation and maintenance, with attention given to both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Bodywork and Finishing

The bodywork is initially assembled from 5 mm plywood panels, which are then covered in a fiberglass resin mix. After fitting and trimming, the car is painted and finished with high-quality materials to ensure durability and a sleek appearance.

Conclusion

The Almajo sports car is a testament to Alain Rossignol's vision and craftsmanship. By integrating readily available components from Renault and other vehicles, Rossignol has created a unique and practical sports car that stands out for its design, performance, and accessibility. This innovative approach not only provides a glimpse into the potential of DIY automotive construction but also celebrates the spirit of ingenuity and craftsmanship in car design.