"So sensational was the public and motoring press reaction in 1998 at the Paris Salon unveiling of their concept design gran-turismo super-MPV, Renault poured a staggering 1.4bn francs (€285m) into development of the world’s first MPV coupé. Remarkably, true to the original design, the 'Avantime', built by Matra, was a genuine mould-breaker that offered a luxurious cabin. Add to this an option to specify the highly capable three litre, V6 engine, the Avantime really delivered a truly exciting motoring experience.
First registered to Renault UK Ltd., each 'prestige' dealership was allocated a showcase Avantime. HY02 XZN is 'Limited Edition' car Number 55. Specified as a top-of-the-range, three litre, V6 in 'Nocturn' metallic purple beneath silver roof-rails with black leather and carpets. Mr. Black has been the sole private registered keeper of this car from new, with annual usage reducing each year until the car was placed into storage for four years. Some light recommissioning took place last Summer and a fresh MoT test issued last September. The car is reported to present magnificently and drives smoothly. Historics are proud to present such a desirable Avantime, complete with both original keys, leather owner's zipper wallet, original dealer number plates (retained with the history file), Limited Edition Renault UK presentation book, box, plaque and certificate. With only 452 examples having been sold in righthand drive in the UK, such fine examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find, certainly one with just one recorded owner."