[Matt]

Renault 5

Best-seller

Vital statistics

In 1972, Renault released a cute, compact hatchback playing on the twin qualities of practicality and fun.
Release was heralded by a highly original advertising campaign featuring cartoons instead of photographs, to effectively drive home the underlying concept rather than merely boast actual product virtues.
Virtues there were, and in abundance, since the Renault 5 combined city-smart features (like a compact footprint and wrap-around reinforced polyester bumpers) with good open-road capabilities (four independent wheels, suspension, etc.).

The Renault 5 very soon rose to become France's biggest selling car, making nonsense of previous claims that a three-door hatchback would be unsaleable in France. The strong emphasis on motoring pleasure was backed by down-to-earth versatility and functionality: the Renault 5 had something of a split personality. Market appeal was further enhanced by low fuel consumption, an important factor around the time of the second oil crisis.
A five-door version followed in 1979, and sporting variants (Alpine and turbo) aroused considerable interest.
Over the years, production would top 5,325,000 units, and the Renault 5 would enjoy a brilliant international career.


Data sheet

Name: Renault 5
Model year: 1973
Engine: Renault four-cylinder, in-line - Bore 65 mm - Stroke 72 mm - Capacity 956cc
Power: 47 bhp SAE
Gearbox: Four forward synchromesh gears and reverse
Brakes: Drum brakes at front and hydraulic control at rear
Coachwork: All-steel body forming shell with chassis
Dimensions and weight: Length 3.50 m - Width 1.52 m - Height 1.40 m - Weight 785 kg
Top speed: Over 135 km/h