1981 Renault R5 Turbo

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The Renault R5 Turbo 1981 is a compact sports car that was produced by French automaker Renault in the early 1980s. The car features a unique mid-engine layout that was designed specifically for rally racing, and it quickly gained a reputation as one of the best handling and most exciting cars of the era.

The heart of the Renault R5 Turbo 1981 is its 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is capable of producing up to 160 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 163 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels, making it a true driver's car that offers a thrilling, responsive driving experience.

To handle the power and provide exceptional handling, the Renault R5 Turbo 1981 features a number of advanced technical features. These include a front-mounted intercooler that helps to keep the turbocharged engine cool and provide consistent power delivery, as well as a rear-mounted radiator that helps to regulate engine temperature while also improving overall weight distribution.

The car also features a suspension system that was designed specifically for rally racing, with front MacPherson struts and rear trailing arms that provide precise control and exceptional handling on a range of surfaces. The brakes are equally impressive, with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear that offer exceptional stopping power and fade resistance.

Inside the car, the Renault R5 Turbo 1981 is designed for the driver, with a supportive racing seat that provides excellent feedback and control, as well as a minimalist dashboard that displays only the most essential information. The car also features a lightweight construction, with a tubular steel chassis and aluminum body panels that keep weight to a minimum without sacrificing strength and durability.

Overall, the Renault R5 Turbo 1981 is a unique and exciting car that offers exceptional handling, thrilling performance, and advanced technical features that help to make it a true driver's car. Whether you're a rally racing enthusiast or simply appreciate the art of driving, the Renault R5 Turbo 1981 is a car that is sure to impress.

Milestones

- Renault R5 Turbo launched in 1981 as a high-performance version of the Renault 5. - Powered by a mid-mounted 1.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 160 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. - Equipped with front and rear independent suspension, ventilated disc brakes, and a lightweight body. - Designed with a striking exterior featuring wider fenders, a distinctive hood scoop, and a large rear spoiler. - Debuted in rallying at the 1981 Monte Carlo Rally, where it finished 1st and 3rd in its class, and went on to win the 1984 World Rally Championship. - Produced in limited numbers until 1986, with various upgrades and special editions introduced throughout its production cycle. - Today, the Renault R5 Turbo is regarded as a classic, with well-preserved examples fetching high prices at auction.


Technical

- Engine: 1.4L turbocharged inline-four - Power: 160 hp @ 6,250 rpm - Torque: 163 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm - Transmission: 5-speed manual - Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive - Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear live axle with coil springs and panhard rod - Brakes: Front ventilated discs, rear drums - Steering: Rack-and-pinion - Wheels: 15-inch alloy - Tires: Michelin TRX - 0-60 mph: 6.6 seconds - Top Speed: 126 mph - Weight: 1,062 kg (2,341 lbs) - Length: 3,800 mm (149.6 in) - Width: 1,700 mm (66.9 in) - Height: 1,300 mm (51.2 in) - Wheelbase: 2,380 mm (93.7 in) - Fuel consumption: 8.9L/100km (31.2 mpg) - Production years: 1981-1986 - Production number: 4,547 units
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