1983 Renault 5 Gordini Turbo

Lot details
Registration No: A622TJD
Chassis No: 122B00E0000296
Mot Expiry: None

The original Renault 5 was launched in 1972 as a replacement for the 4 - still using the same powertrain layout with the engine mounted behind the gearbox. By 1976, a 1397cc Alpine version appeared, the first of the 'hot hatches', pre-dating the launch of the original Golf GTI by a year. It was marketed in the UK as the Gordini because Chrysler owned the rights to the name Alpine there - and as a nod to Renault famous tuning specialist Amédée Gordini, known as Le Sorcier or The Wizard. Its 1397cc pushrod engine differed from the lower-powered versions by having hemispherical combustion chambers and produced 93bhp, more than twice as much as the original 1108cc version. Other features included turbine-style alloy wheels and restyled interior, five-speed gearbox and lower, stiffened torsion-bar suspension. The Turbo version arrived in 1982 with even stiffer suspension, and produced 110bhp in standard form, enough to propel the little 850kg hatch to 115mph, with 0-60mph coming up in 9.1 secs. Renault 5s had their own one-make racing series in the UK from 1974, and from 1982-1984 the French Cup was for Alpine Turbos. In 1985 the second-generation 'Supercinq' with transverse engine (and also a turbo version available) arrived.

This car, with added intercooler, was race prepared by leading Renault saloon race expert Mark Fish Motorsport and was "actively raced and always performed well", according to the vendor. Bought by him in 2008 and only campaigned once, near the end of the year, everything on this R5 is said to work following a full pre-race checkover and it had new Sparco seat, belts and brakes prior to its recent circuit outing. As a circuit racer it of course has a substantial rollcage, plumbed-in fire extinguisher and electrical cut-offs. "Great fun", enthuses the vendor, describing its overall condition, inside and out as "good for a racing car". As a competition car, it has no MOT or road fund licence, but would go back on the road quite easily - and it is being sold at no reserve.