1991 RENAULT 5 GT TURBO

This Renault 5 GT Turbo is a low mileage, ‘time warp’ example of the marque’s 1980s hot hatch, which helped set the template for the exciting modern Renaultsport models that are widely celebrated today. Under the bonnet is a turbocharged 1.4-litre inline-four engine, producing 118bhp, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer shows just 49,989 miles, which is believed to be correct.

First registered on 23 April 1991, this ‘Phase II’ GT Turbo is believed to have had five owners from new, though there are just three previous keepers on the log book. The original owner purchased it from Renault Birmingham, on the same registration that it wears today – and in fact the original number plates even accompany the car. Having spent a large amount of time well-preserved in storage, the Renault was sold on in 2005 to its second owner with only 19,000 miles recorded.

Over the next 15 years, it is understood the car was owned by two further keepers prior to the seller, and it has been maintained in as original condition as possible. Finished in Tungsten Grey paintwork, the body presents very well. There is a smooth and even appearance across the panels, and it has recently undergone a professional paint correction and detailing treatment. The period-correct graphics on both sides of the car are original, with only minor stone chipping apparent on both these and the front end of the vehicle.

The vendor states that there is no rust on the car, with the underside also looking very clean, with no evidence of welding repairs. There is no underseal applied, so the chassis and floors can be inspected clearly. It rides on the correct 13-inch five-spoke Speedline alloy wheels, which are in very good condition with no kerbing or scratches.

Inside, the slab-shaped Renault is in as close to showroom condition as the exterior. The fabric seats retain the shape and padding of the bolsters, with no tears or significant fading apparent on the grey cloth. All of the switchgear – from the electric windows to the lights and HVAC controls – works as it should, while the main contact points including the gear knob and steering wheel are in excellent order. The interior appears to be all original, right down to the period-perfect stereo head unit that comes with the car – though it is not currently fitted.

Marque specialist GT Turbo Spares has been used to take care of this fast R5 since 2016. The latest service was in March 2020, and in recent years the brakes and suspension bushes have also been overhauled to ensure safe operation.

The most recent MOT test was on 13 March 2020 at 49,876 miles. This was a clean pass earned at the first time of asking. Its wheel are shod in 195/55 R13 Uniroyal Rallye tyres, which the vendor notes have been replaced within the last four years, and which remain in very good order having covered approximately 2,000 miles in this time.

In addition to the original supplying dealer number plates and stereo head unit, the GT Turbo will reach its next owner with its original keys and remote fob, Renault handbooks and a number of supporting invoices and MOT certificates.

This Renault 5 GT Turbo is a rare opportunity to purchase what presents as a lightly used, highly original example of this iconic Gallic hot hatch. With well-preserved factory features, it would be a worthy addition to any collection of modern classics, but it also deserves at least occasional wringing out on the next owner’s favourite B-roads.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.