The Renault 5 is a five-passenger, three or five-door, front-engine, front-wheel drive hatchback supermini manufactured over two generations: 1972–1984 (also called R5) and 1984–1990 (also called 5 or R5 MK2) The Renault 5 was introduced in 1972 and was produced until 1985. It was known for its distinctive design and practicality. The car featured a compact, boxy design with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. It was available in both three-door and five-door hatchback versions.
The Renault 5 was very popular in Europe and became one of the best-selling cars in France. It was also exported to many other countries.
The Renault 5 was available in various trims and engine options. It also had a performance version known as the Renault 5 Turbo, which became famous for its success in rallying. A second generation of the Renault 5 was launched in 1984, known as the “Supercinq” or “Super 5.” It featured updated styling and improved technology.
First Generation Renault 5 (1972-1985)
Engines:
- Inline-4 engines with various displacements:
- 782 cc, 850 cc, 956 cc, 1.1 L (1108 cc), 1.3 L (1289 cc), 1.4 L (1397 cc)
- Power output ranged from 36 hp to 63 hp (varied with engine size and year)
Transmission:
- 4-speed manual
- 5-speed manual (later models)
- 3-speed automatic (optional)
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 2,405 mm (94.7 in)
- Length: 3,505 mm (138.0 in)
- Width: 1,525 mm (60.0 in)
- Height: 1,405 mm (55.3 in)
- Curb weight: Approximately 750 kg to 840 kg (depending on model and year)
Performance:
- Top speed: Ranged from 125 km/h (78 mph) to 150 km/h (93 mph) depending on engine
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): Ranged from approximately 17 seconds to 12 seconds
Renault 5 Turbo (1980-1986)
Engine:
- 1.4 L (1397 cc) turbocharged inline-4
- Power output: 160 hp (119 kW)
Transmission:
- 5-speed manual
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 2,430 mm (95.7 in)
- Length: 3,660 mm (144.1 in)
- Width: 1,750 mm (68.9 in)
- Height: 1,320 mm (51.9 in)
- Curb weight: Approximately 970 kg (2,138 lbs)
Performance:
- Top speed: Approximately 200 km/h (124 mph)
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): Around 7 seconds
The Renault 5 Turbo was a high-performance version of the Renault 5, designed for rallying and featuring a mid-engine layout with rear-wheel drive, unlike the front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout of the standard Renault 5. It became famous for its success in rally racing and its distinctive wide-body design.