Launching in 1972 and surviving for 12 years, the first-generation Renault 5 proved to be a major success, with almost 5.5 million sold. Unlike the Fiat 127 and most later rivals, the Renault employed a longitudinally-mounted engine, but in every other respect was a genuine supermini, with chic Michel Boué-penned looks, an entertaining driving style, hatchback versatility and a wide range of derivatives to choose from.
Although the French-spec 782cc version was never imported, UK buyers would be offered 5s with 845, 956, 1108, 1289 and 1397cc engines over the years, as well as a wide range of trim levels and – in later life – a five-door version. It even helped to invent the hot hatch segment thanks to the launch of the Gordini (known as the Alpine in France), featuring a tuned 93bhp version of Renault’s 1.4-litre motor. There was yet more excitement in late 1981 when the Gordini Turbo was launched, its Garrett turbocharger boosting power to 110bhp.
The next-generation Renault 5 – known in its homeland as the Supercinq – arrived in ’84, with its Marcello Gandini-penned styling deliberately paying
