Renault 5 (1972 - 1984)

Introduction

The Renault 5 was designer Michel Boué’s legacy to the automotive world. Tragically, he would never see his labours bear fruit, dying mere months before the Renault 5 was launched in December 1971. The three-door hatchback was based on the utilitarian R4, sharing its longitudinal 845cc engine and torsion bar suspension layout (and differing left and right wheelbases). The styling was super-chic, though, and when it went on sale in 1972, the Renault 5 caused a sensation being a supermini pioneer, alongside the Autobianchi A112 and Fiat 127.

Wraparound plastic bumpers made the 5 Paris-friendly, and a wide range of engines gave the driver plenty of options – through the years, it received ever more power, and in 1979 a five-door version added even more practicality. As the the years rolled on and more rivals were introduced, the R5 never lost its appeal, remaining the best selling car in France until it went out of production. An all-time design classic, and becoming increasingly valued today.