We think you're near Los Angeles

Currently in Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles Current temperature: 76°F: Current condition: Clear See Extended Forecast

Vintage street racing film from Paris 1978

Street racing has been going on for longer than the release of Fast and Furious movie series. Contrary to belief, previous generations were also involved in street racing. Starting as early as two cars were on the road, street racing has been a cultist past time for dare devils and enthusiasts alike. This vintage street racing film features a Ferrari 275 ripping up the streets of Paris in 1978. But it's really not a Ferrari, it's actually a Mercedes. Depicted by the film "C'etait un rendez vous", they mixed a Ferrari sound track with a Mercedes vehicle.  Swooping and pulling through corners, monuments, and catacombs the "Ferrari 275" appears to handle quite well. Perfectly placed gearing allows the Italian engine, or german; to whine out success through any obstacle.

Ferrari 275 specifications:

  • Tipo 226 V12 DOHC engine
  • 300 horsepower
  • Top speed of 160 mph
  • Six twin choke Webber carbs

Street racing in modern times has taken on a taboo as if it is only modern times that street racing occurred. The truth is that it has been going on for decades. Do you recall the classic days of the 1950's and 1960's where they would shut down county roads and run a pseudo quarter mile? During the 1970's when muscle cars laid down rubber with bleach on the tires was the next movement forward. Things are different now and street racing isn't as safe as it used to be. The roads are more crowded, cities are over populated, and the cars are much faster. Look at this video and see how little amount of traffic is on the streets of Paris. Go there today, and it's grid lock. In my opinion, that's why I believe modern street racing is under more pressure than the days of yore. Enjoy the following vintage street racing footage from 1978 Paris courtesy Ferrari 275, ehrm... Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9!

Video content: Vintage street racing film from Paris 1978

Related articles:

 These articles can be delivered to your email daily by subscribing!

Advertisement

, Tampa Sports Car Examiner

Full-time engineer turned writer, Michael brings knowledgeable articles about Tampa Bay's sports car scene. His experience in import, domestic, and exotic manufacturers ensures quality content for all readers. Michael is also a contributor at CarDomain.com and can be contacted via Streetfire.net...

Comments

  • Michael Block (Orlando Auto Examiner) 2 years ago

    This is the famous Rendezvous film. The visual footage is indeed real high-performance driving through an unsuspecting Paris very early in the morning, but the consensus among car enthusiasts is that the audio is dubbed.

  • Nick 2 years ago

    Ah, the famous Claude Lelouche Rendez-Vous film. NEVER, ever watch it before taking your favorite car out for a spin!

    I used to live in Paris and know these streets. They can be a lot of fun to drive on with its shoddy pavement cobble stones. What is beautiful about the film is how little cars there are.

    Nick, The Electric Car Examiner

Add a new comment

Join the conversation! Log in here or create a new account if you've never registered before.

Got something to say?

Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!

Don't miss...