With its iconic design and proven performance, the Renault 5 GT Turbo established itself as a true benchmark for small sports cars of the 1980s. This model, which was released between 1985 and 1990, left its mark not only on the French automotive industry, but also on the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Its high-performance turbocharged engine, coupled with a responsive chassis, made it an attractive choice for thrill-seekers. Let’s take a closer look at this legendary model.
Contents
- The Origins of the Renault 5 GT Turbo
- Performance and Technical Specifications
- Design and Interior Ergonomics
- A Sporting Heritage: Racing History
- The Used Car Market: Investment and Model Price
- Collector Editions and Their Value
- The Perspective of Enthusiasts and Experts
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Renault 5 GT Turbo
The Origins of the Renault 5 GT Turbo
The Renault 5 GT Turbo responded to a growing need for a sporty version of the Super 5, launched shortly before. As early as 1984, the French car brand felt it was imperative to stand out from increasingly fierce competition, notably embodied by the Peugeot 205 GTI. It was in this competitive environment that Renault decided to create a performance-oriented model.
The specifications were ambitious: maintain a certain accessibility while offering an exhilarating driving experience. Marcello Gandini, a renowned Italian designer, was tasked with developing the car’s design. With its angular look and sharp lines, the GT Turbo boasted an instantly recognizable style, in keeping with the trends of the 1980s.The chassis was thus an adaptation derived from the Renault 9, thus retaining the front-wheel drive so beloved by drivers. This laid the foundation for agile and responsive handling. The model would quickly become known as the GT Turbo, among other things for its supercharged engine, which promised thrills and pleasure.
The development phase was not without its complications. Technical choices, such as the decision to retain the carburetor engine, were made to keep costs under control. This gives an idea of the complexity of this automotive project, which would leave an indelible mark.
The
Renault 5 GT Turbo thus saw the light of day, but it was not immediately well received. The markets were not yet ready to fully embrace the concept of small, supercharged sports cars, but the brand had confidence in its product. Despite tough competition, the GT Turbo would earn its well-deserved place on the racetrack, thus asserting its legitimacy. Discover the Renault 5 GT Turbo, an 80s icon combining performance, retro style, and innovation. Immerse yourself in the world of this small sports car with timeless charm, blending power and maneuverability for an unforgettable driving experience. Performance and Technical Specifications
Engine power is a central element of this small sports car’s identity. The GT Turbo’s technical specifications include:
Engine type: Inline 4-cylinder Displacement: 1,397 ccTransmission: 5-speed manual transmission
Weight: 830 kg
- Top speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
- The engine configuration, with its turbocharged engine and carburetor positioned on the right side, produces 164 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. This makes this car a real pleasure to drive, especially in tight corners. It’s worth noting that the GT Turbo’s suspension, with its McPherson struts up front and a torsion bar arrangement at the rear, provides good handling.It’s clear that Renault has succeeded in creating a balanced model, combining performance and driving pleasure. However, it would be wrong to say that everything was perfect. Fuel consumption, when the turbo is really pushed, is something to consider, sometimes reaching 10 liters per 100 km in spirited driving. But in more relaxed everyday driving, it can manage less than 7.5 liters, which is reassuring for a car of this caliber. Technical Specifications
- Data
- Engine
- 4-cylinder turbo
Power
115 hp
| Torque | 164 Nm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 830 kg |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5 l/100 km (in stationary mode) |
| https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHwFJAWQvwM | Interior Design and Ergonomics |
| The design of the Renault 5 GT Turbo is immediately recognizable. Its compact silhouette and angular lines are the work of Marcello Gandini. This design, rather avant-garde for the time, gives it a unique character. Stylistic elements, such as the specific bumpers, the aluminum wheels, and the gray accents on the side sills, create an aesthetic harmony appreciated by enthusiasts. | Inside, ergonomics are a strong point, despite a finish that may leave something to be desired. The dashboard, although criticized for its design, remains functional. The sport seats provide good support, allowing you to concentrate on the road. The red instrument panel adds a touch of originality that reflects Renault’s boldness at the time. |
| Note: | Power windows were optional, a rare feature for cars in this class. |
The GT Turbo captivated the eye with its dynamic aesthetics and undeniable sporty touches.
In terms of driving comfort, the compact Renault offers a generous experience.
The steering wheel, although offset from the seats, remains pleasant to use, especially when taking tight turns. The materials used inside, although lightweight, reflect the cars of the time and are of a quality that might seem somewhat lacking today. Design Elements
- Description Designer
- Marcello Gandini
- Body Type
Compact ColorsGray fascia, red elements
| Seats | Sporty with good support |
|---|---|
| Dashboard | Red instruments |
| Discover the legendary Renault 5 GT Turbo, an icon of the 1980s combining performance and style. Immerse yourself in the world of this sports car with its bold design, celebrated for its powerful engine and competitive spirit. Relive its history and explore the features that made it a legend on the roads. | A sporting heritage: a history of competition |
| The Renault 5 GT Turbo left a strong mark on the world of rallying and road racing. In the 1980s, the GT Turbo proved to be a highly competitive car on rally grounds, thanks to its well-designed technical features. Renowned drivers, such as Alain Oreille, made the brand shine in competition. The car competed in prestigious events, often placing at the top of the rankings. It held its own against formidable competitors, such as the famous Peugeot 205 GTI, embodying a true benchmark for small sports cars at the time. | The results achieved in several rallies contributed to the model’s reputation. With its impressive performance, this Renault won the hearts of motorsport fans. |
| 🏆 Rally victories on various European circuits. | 🚗 Prominent presence at major automotive events. |
| 🌍 Growing reputation thanks to its successes, both nationally and internationally. | These competitive exploits and the growing popularity of the GT Turbo played a crucial role in promoting Renault in the sports car market. The popularity of this car led to special editions, making the model even more desirable for racing enthusiasts. Key Events |
Monte Carlo Rally
Top 10 Positions
Tour de Corse Rally Notable VictoriesLocal Competitions
Multiple Titles Won
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7hoRIB9izc
- Used Car Market: Investment and Model Price
- On the used car market, the Renault 5 GT Turbo has experienced significant fluctuations in value. Once shunned, its price is now steadily rising. For a model in decent condition, you now need to pay a minimum of €13,000, and this can easily rise to €20,000 for a model in perfect condition.
Compared to other models from the same era, such as the Peugeot 205 GTI, the GT Turbo has the distinction of becoming a real investment. Many experts believe this is just the beginning of a successful career in the classic car market.
| 💰 Entry price: | €13,000 |
|---|---|
| 🎯 At €20,000, an impeccable model to be exacted | 📈 Value likely to increase over time |
| Auctions show that some collector models, such as the limited edition named after driver Alain Oreille, fetch even higher sums, making this Renault all the more attractive to enthusiasts. | Estimated Prices |
| Condition | ≈ €13,000 |
≈ €20,000
Model in perfect condition €27,416Alain Oreille Limited Edition Discover the Renault 5 GT Turbo, an icon of the 1980s combining sporty performance and retro design. Immerse yourself in the world of this legendary car, which has left its mark with its power and unique style. Explore its history, technical specifications, and legacy in the automotive world. Collector Editions and Their Value
Collector editions of the Renault 5 GT Turbo are particularly sought after on the market. Among the most sought-after models is the limited edition dedicated to Alain Oreille, the rally champion, which adds an additional aura to the car. The original condition is a decisive factor in the rising prices of these models. Finding a truly original example, without major reconditioning, is becoming increasingly difficult. This explains why demand and prices are constantly rising.
- 💎 The Alain Oreille limited edition, highly sought after. 🔍 Cars in perfect condition, a true treasure.
- 📉 Restored models often command less value.
- It’s also worth keeping an eye on the markets, particularly at auctions. The figures obtained at these events can sometimes exceed experts’ expectations. This phenomenon reflects the passion collectors have for this iconic vehicle. Moreover, the small number of remaining models reinforces these values.
Model
| Estimated Value | Alain Oreille Limited Edition |
|---|---|
| Values can exceed €27,000 | Standard models (excellent condition) |
| Approximately €20,000 | Restored models |
| Fluctuating Value, Often Lower | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ip7LVWR_OAo |
For many classic car enthusiasts, the Renault 5 GT Turbo represents much more than a sports car; it’s a symbol of an entire era. Fans of the brand often express a deep attachment to this small sports car, which they define as a perfect blend of fun and efficiency.
While being a high-performance car, it is also considered affordable compared to other small sports cars of the same era. Experts agree that the Renault 5 GT Turbo should not be underestimated compared to its competitors of the time, such as the famous
Ford Fiesta XR2
- or the
- Volkswagen Golf GTI
- .
Opinions also converge on the fact that the driving experience it offers remains unparalleled. The responsive steering and the energetic engine often place the GT Turbo at the top of the list of favorites.
| 🏁 Review: A car that defies time. | 🔧 Appreciated for its robustness and handling. |
|---|---|
| 🏆 Considered one of the best in its class. | With its history and reputation, the Renault 5 GT Turbo continues to seduce over time, and the testimonies of enthusiasts only reinforce its iconic status. Whether driven occasionally or in rallies, its legacy endures and continues to inspire generations of drivers. |
| Expert Opinions | Key Features |
| Reliability | Robust and easy-to-maintain engine. |
Agility and responsiveness under all circumstances.
Economy
Moderate fuel consumption during leisurely driving. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Renault 5 GT Turbo What is the engine power of the Renault 5 GT Turbo? The engine develops115 horsepower
and offers impressive performance for its class.
- What is the price of a Renault 5 GT Turbo in 2025?
- Pre-owned prices start at €13,000, with values reaching up to €20,000 for models in perfect condition.
- Which Renault 5 GT Turbo models are the most sought-after?
The limited edition dedicated to Alain Oreille is one of the most sought-after versions among collectors.
| How does the Renault 5 GT Turbo handle on the road? | It offers excellent handling and is very responsive, allowing for a pleasant, sporty drive. |
|---|---|
| Where did the Renault 5 GT Turbo come from? | It was designed by Marcello Gandini, known for his work on other iconic automobiles. |