1982 Rondeau M382
1982 Rondeau M382
Brand
Rondeau
Year
1982
Country
France
Generation
M382
1982 Rondeau M382
Brand
Rondeau
Year
1982
Country
France
Generation
M382
About this car
Discover the history
The 1982 Rondeau M382 was developed by French racing driver and constructor Jean Rondeau to bridge the gap between his M379 and the planned M482 model, competing primarily in endurance races. The M382 was structurally built with an updated version of the M379’s aluminum-reinforced tubular frame, incorporating additional aerodynamic adjustments, though it largely retained the visual design of its predecessor. A significant change was the adoption of a Cosworth DFL 3.9-liter V8 engine, a high-performance power unit favored in sports car racing for its reliability and power output, and extensively tuned by Heini Mader, a specialist known for optimizing Cosworth engines. The new powertrain was mounted as a load-bearing element within the chassis, effectively bolstering the M382’s structural integrity and power delivery on high-speed tracks.Â
One of the most significant features of the M382 was its rear suspension system, which included a rocker arm arrangement that enhanced stability and handling precision, crucial for the intense demands of endurance racing. The transmission system received an overhaul as well, with a specially modified Hewland VG5 gearbox, providing drivers with smoother gear shifts and enhanced control at high speeds. Although the M382 featured ground effect technology, its aerodynamic capabilities were somewhat limited compared to contemporary designs, as Rondeau’s resources were modest compared to larger manufacturers.Â
The M382 debuted at the Monza 1000 km in 1982, where it immediately made an impact. Driven by Henri Pescarolo and Giorgio Francia, it secured a first-place finish, showcasing the car’s competitive potential. The M382 continued to participate in several endurance events throughout the season, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, although it struggled to repeat the success seen at Monza. Throughout its tenure, the M382 faced stiff competition from rivals with more advanced aerodynamics and development budgets, particularly from manufacturers like Porsche. Nevertheless, Rondeau’s engineering expertise and the M382’s rugged build allowed it to remain competitive in the World Endurance Championship, contributing valuable data that would later influence the development of the Rondeau M482.Â
In total, seven M382 units were produced, each receiving incremental upgrades as the season progressed, which allowed them to adapt to the rigorous demands of endurance racing. These upgrades helped Rondeau refine his cars despite financial limitations and limited access to state-of-the-art technology. While the M382 may not have dominated the racing circuit, it remains an important example of Rondeau’s ingenuity and commitment to producing competitive, independent racing machines. The M382’s legacy is closely tied to Rondeau’s ambition to take on established giants with innovative, resourceful engineering, leaving a mark in sports car racing history that persists through its technical advancements and memorable performances.Â
