1982 Renault 5 - Turbo 1

The Renault 5 Turbo 1 is one of the most iconic and exclusive cars in Renault's history. Launched in 1980 and developed with competition in mind, it completely transformed the concept of the conventional Renault 5, adopting a radical architecture with a mid-rear engine and rear-wheel drive. Equipped with a 1,397 cc four-cylinder engine, supercharged by a Garrett turbocharger and fed by Bosch K-Jetronic injection, it developed around 160 hp, transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. Weighing approximately 970 kg and with a top speed close to 200 km/h, it offered truly exceptional performance for the early 1980s. Its profoundly modified body, marked by the imposing rear wheel arches and the use of aluminum elements for weight reduction, is accompanied by an equally exclusive interior, with a bold design associated with Bertone and Marcello Gandini, including specific instrument panel, steering wheel, seats and upholstery. Produced between 1980 and 1982 at the Alpine plant in Dieppe, France, the first-series Renault 5 Turbo, later known as the Turbo 1, had a production run of approximately 1,820 units, making it significantly rarer than its successor, the Turbo 2. The combination of limited production, low weight, mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, unmistakable design, and a strong connection to the world of rallying made the Renault 5 Turbo 1 a true icon of the 1980s and one of the most special and collectible models ever produced by Renault.