The Renault 5 GT Turbo, launched in 1976, was one of the first true hot-hatches.
The
VW Golf GTI had arrived making the R5 Alpine look dated and slow.
So Renault created the Renault 5, known in England as the Gordini Turbo which developed into the GT Turbo, now regarded as a classic by many.
Fast and reliable if well maintained our reviewers absolutely love it!
History
The Renault 5 was one of the great post-war French designs a wonderfully elegant small front wheel drive in a two door hatchback body.
Its pleasing character style which many felt offered a bit more elegance compared to, say, the Mini Cooper or VW GTI, was a huge hit and the GT Turbo version became the best loved of the 5 series.
1982 - The Turbo II replaced the Turbo I and was made up until 1986.
1985 - Renault introduced the GT Turbo which had decent power in a small frame and 115bhp. An air cooled Garret T2 turbocharger was also part of the package with a modified Renault 8 Gordini 1394cc engine.
The body styling became even more subtle and the power was delivered at the front to the front wheels.
1988 - New improved version with various changes including the use of a water cooled turbocharger.
1989 - Received a new interior.
1991 - Raider model was launched. This was a special edition with plusher interior and sportier wheels. In 1991 the Renault 5 GT Turbo was retired and replaced by the
Clio range.
Reviews
Some Review Centre reviews:
If you treat the Renault 5 GT Turbo right then it will be your pride and joy for as long as you have it.
The 5t is a superb car throughout. They say they are unreliable but that is if you dont look after them.
Aahhhhh!! my dream car. What can I say? A beauty on four wheels.
Media reviews:
Yahoo Cars said: A cheap but frantically fast runabout with Renault 5 practicality and ease of maintenance.
The Independent said: These cars are much loved by the Max Power brigade..
Specification
Later models - zero to 60mph, 7s
1397cc turbocharged OHV engine - based on the Renault Sierra pushrod engine, but having hemispherical combustion chambers
Crossflow cylinder head
110bhp
Alloy wheels
Five speed gearbox, front-wheel drive
Stiffened suspension
