To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Villa Erba
event, 25 May 2019.
Estimate:
€100.000 - €130.000
- Rare Series 1 example
- Retained by its original French owner for decades
- Believed to have only three owners from new
- One of fewer than 600 built
The Renault 5 Turbo was built to promote the more conventional R5
Alpine, but also to homologate a package potent enough to challenge
the likes of Lancia in the World Rally Championship. Launched at
the Brussels Motor Show in 1980, it was an unexpected success and
has since become a cult "hot hatch".
The reason for the popularity is easy to see in hindsight: it was
simply outrageous, both in concept and realisation. The 90 bhp
front engine, front-wheel drive conventional layout of the R5
Alpine was ditched in favour of a mid-engined, 160-bhp turbocharged
unit, driven at the rear. Widened track, modified suspension and
aluminum bodywork and fiberglass flared wheels arches finished the
package. So effective was the upgrade that it became the most
powerful French car in production at the time of its launch.
This fantastic example is note-worthy for being a series 1 example,
of which fewer than 600 were produced. It boasts a fascinating
ownership history, having remained in the hands of one French
family for a majority of its life. Specified in beautiful Blue
Olympe with its suitably eye-catching art-deco matching interior
(unique to series 1 cars), it presents in fine original condition.
As offered by the consignor, the car is believed to be have only
three caretakers since new. It is accompanied by a copy of its
original French title, complete toolkit and original radio.
This may well be one of the finest series 1 cars in existence and
any collector with a penchant for French cars, rally cars or
extremely fun toys ought to give it serious consideration.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/ve19.
