1987 Renault 5 – Project Profile

Not all project cars have to involve a full engine rebuild or a complete strip and paint. Some, like this cute little second generation Renault 5 for example, merely need a touch of finessing. Some finishing off. A snag list of jobs, if you will. What better way to start your New Year tinkering, then? Whether it be your first foray into classic cars or as a way to ease yourself into spannering again in 2023 it represents a wonderful opportunity to finagle a Frenchy back to its best with minimal effort. Much like returning to the gym after two weeks of Christmas debauchery it could be the catalyst that eases you back into the garage this January.

What is it?

The Renault 5 is one of the most enduring and beloved hatchbacks ever made. It’s undeniably adorable but it isn’t just its cutesy looks that make it such great car. It’s not just great to look at, it’s also not too shabby behind the wheel either. While based upon the Renault 4 that proceeded it the 5, launched in 1972, was a step forwards in terms of design with its monocoque chassis but retained the ruggedness and reliability of its predecessor. Penned by Michel Boué as somewhat of a side project it immediately caught the eyes of Renault execs who were keen to develop the car and get it into production.

This particular example is a second generation model, known as the Superfive. But what makes it super? We hear you cry. Well, despite a similar aesthetic to the original R5 the chassis and body were completely new for a start. Designed by the legendary Marcello Gandini the car was larger and more technologically advanced to boot, featuring as it did, McPherson strut front suspension and a new transverse four-cylinder engine from Renault’s larger 9 small family runabout. One step up from the base model, this TL features the 1.1-litre version of said powerplant delivering around 50bhp to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

Why is it a project?

Having been dry stored for the past ten years there has been some recommissioning work carried out by the current owner who bought the car as a non-runner. It has since been put back on the road and now has an advisory-free MOT until November. We know what you’re thinking, it doesn’t sound too much like a project does it? Despite its relatively rude health and incredibly low mileage of just 26K though the car does need a little extra push to get it over the finish line. This includes some minor bodywork repairs involving a dent in the offside rear door and some surface rust below the windscreen, as well as a proper tuning of the carburettor.

Five things to look for:

1) Bodywork
This is the area you’ll need to scrutinise the most as Renault 5s are prone to rot. Later cars, such as this one, are better protected but a full inspection of the body and chassis is recommended. We know there are a couple of dents to deal with and some corrosion below the windscreen which is a common problem, but is it merely surface rust or does it go deeper? The windscreen may have to come out for a repair so get in amongst it.

2) Engine
Renault’s Sierra four-banger is a simple affair that should remain trouble-free if properly maintained. The car has recently been treated to a full service and has had all of the perishable hoses replaced which is par for the course for a car that has been sitting for as long as this one has. The carburettor is new and although not currently running correctly should be easily sorted with a proper tune.

3) Suspension, steering and brakes
These components are generally unstressed due to the car’s low power output and curb weight but because of its period in storage it’s worth checking for any perished items due to their limited use. Rubber bushings can degrade and harden so check that the car feels stable on the road without any knocks or clunks. Check the rubber brake hoses are not dried out and cracking as well.

4) Electrics
French cars from the ’80s are not widely renowned for their faultless electrical systems and so it would be pertinent to make sure everything works as it should. The mice may have been munching due to the car’s previous period of inactivity and some wires and connectors may have perished in the interim.

5) History
This particular Renault 5 has been in the same family for most of its life. There are some original receipts and paperwork (including the delivery certificate) so have a look through these to make sure the car has been correctly and regularly serviced. With such limited use though, missing history is not the end of the world in this case and the car’s current clean MOT speaks volumes.

What should you do with it?

With what appears to be an immaculate interior along with a relatively rust-free body there isn’t much to do with regards to the aesthetics here. Get the dents pulled out and repair the rusty windscreen surround and that’s pretty much that. Treat the carb to a proper tune-up and get this supermini back out on the road where it belongs. This is most definitely a project for the budget-concious but with such low mileage and with prices rising it could be a shrewd little investment.