Highlights
- Early production example No. 102
- 90% Parts provided with the car
- Chassis/shell in very good condition
The Appeal
The Renault 5 Turbo stands as one of the automotive world's embodiments of audacious engineering and is nothing short of a mid-engined riot. To sit behind the wheel of one, even in project form, is to grasp an automotive legend by the scruff. This specific 1981 Turbo 1, only number 102 off the line, comes with the credibility of an early production model.
The engine and gearbox may not be installed, but they are present and in visibly good condition. A variety of parts accompany the vehicle, setting the stage for a restoration project that's more complete than most. The superb mid-mounted 1.4l turbo engine and rear wheel drive holds promise for thrilling drives once restored.
The engine and gearbox may not be installed, but they are present and in visibly good condition. A variety of parts accompany the vehicle, setting the stage for a restoration project that's more complete than most. The superb mid-mounted 1.4l turbo engine and rear wheel drive holds promise for thrilling drives once restored.
But why this car? As someone keen on making a meaningful impact in the car community, bringing this Renault 5 Turbo 1 back to life would be akin to resurrecting a cultural icon. It's a car that has rallycross history in Holland and comes from a line of automobiles that redefined what a hot hatch could be.
While it requires a good amount of work, the shell is robust, free from visible corrosion, and is ready for a fresh coat of paint. It's a project with some serious potential, knowing that the final product would be a machine that gets hearts pounding and heads turning.
While it requires a good amount of work, the shell is robust, free from visible corrosion, and is ready for a fresh coat of paint. It's a project with some serious potential, knowing that the final product would be a machine that gets hearts pounding and heads turning.
The History and Paperwork
- Road Registered, comes with V5
- Used previously for rallycross in Holland
- Current ownership for 7 years
- Parts catalogues and workshop manual
- No other history available
The Interior
- No interior currently fitted
- Steering wheel present
- Gear lever installed
- Pedals in place
- The metal of the interior all presents very well
- Internal roll cage appears to be in sound condition
- Dashboard is supplied with the car
- No seats supplied
Stepping into this Renault 5 Turbo 1 is a bit like entering a blank canvas. Although the interior is bare, the essential elements are intact. The steering wheel, gear lever, and pedals are ready to transmit human intent into mechanical action in the way that this car is known for.
The solid, corrosion-free metal surfaces anticipate whatever flavor of restoration you have in mind. Though presently austere, envisioning the future cockpit already brings a tingle of excitement about the kind of intense, tactile driving experience that only a car like this can offer.
The solid, corrosion-free metal surfaces anticipate whatever flavor of restoration you have in mind. Though presently austere, envisioning the future cockpit already brings a tingle of excitement about the kind of intense, tactile driving experience that only a car like this can offer.
The Exterior
- Shell in very good condition
- No visible rust or corrosion
- Paint showing its age
- Bright yellow colour
- Enlarged radiator exhaust in fibreglass bonnet
- Steel doors
- Aluminium roof
- Wheels appear sound but in need of cosmetic restoration
It's evident from the exterior that this car was born of a certain audacity. The shell, robust and without any visible rust, sets a confident stage for a respray. Its currently bright yellow paint has seen better days, but that's all part of the narrative this car carries - a narrative you can contribute to.
The steel doors complement the fibreglass bonnet, a testament to its rallycross days. The wheels need some TLC, but they remain solid and with some restoration this will make for a truly exceptional looking car.
The steel doors complement the fibreglass bonnet, a testament to its rallycross days. The wheels need some TLC, but they remain solid and with some restoration this will make for a truly exceptional looking car.
The Mechanics
- Legendary 1,397cc turbo engine
- Manual gearbox
- Smaller twin-fan radiator (full-size also supplied)
- New turbo and alternator
- Brake system included
- Twin plate clutch
- Fuel injection system and starter motor
- Three exhaust manifolds are provided
- Adjustable shocks and arms on the front
- Adjustable shocks on the rear
- No wiring loom
Mechanically, this Renault 5 Turbo 1 is a treasure trove of potential. The legendary 1,397cc turbo engine and manual gearbox are supplied and ready for installation, the current owner was informed that the engine has been rebuilt and not used since, unfortunately however there is no documentation of this.
Included in the package are a host of essential parts such as a new turbo and alternator, making it less of a scavenger hunt and more of a puzzle waiting to be solved. The car also comes with adjustable shocks, front and rear, promising fine-tuned driving dynamics once it's back on the road.
Included in the package are a host of essential parts such as a new turbo and alternator, making it less of a scavenger hunt and more of a puzzle waiting to be solved. The car also comes with adjustable shocks, front and rear, promising fine-tuned driving dynamics once it's back on the road.
Summary
To say this 1981 Renault 5 Turbo 1 is merely a project car would be an understatement; it's a ticket to automotive history, waiting for someone with the vision and passion to restore it to its former glory. As an early production model with rallycross history, it’s a verifiable piece of motorsport culture.
While it demands attention and time, the returns, both tangible and emotional, promise to be immense. For the genuine enthusiast, this isn't just a car; it's an adventure waiting to happen.
BEFORE YOU BUY
While it demands attention and time, the returns, both tangible and emotional, promise to be immense. For the genuine enthusiast, this isn't just a car; it's an adventure waiting to happen.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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