Born in the early 1980s, the Renault 5 Turbo was a car that defied convention, turning a humble hatchback into a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive rally weapon. Over the years, its legacy has grown, particularly with the introduction of the Renault 5 Turbo 2. Now, decades later, that legacy has been reimagined with the modern restomod known as the Renault 5 Turbo 3—a car that pays homage to its roots while embracing cutting-edge technology and design.
So, how do these two icons—the classic Renault 5 Turbo 2 and the modern Renault 5 Turbo 3—stack up? Let’s take a closer look at their history, performance, and what makes each one special.
The Classic: Renault 5 Turbo 2
In the late 1970s, Renault was competing fiercely in the World Rally Championship (WRC). To take on rivals like Lancia and Audi, they needed something radical. Enter the Renault 5 Turbo—a car that took the front-engine, front-wheel-drive Renault 5 hatchback and transformed it into a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive rally monster.
The original Renault 5 Turbo debuted in 1980, but it was quickly followed by the Renault 5 Turbo 2 in 1983. The Turbo 2 retained much of what made the original great but was designed to be more affordable to produce. Gone were some of the lightweight aluminum panels and bespoke interior pieces of its predecessor; instead, Renault used parts from its standard production models to keep costs down.
Despite these changes, the Turbo 2 was no less thrilling. Powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter inline-four engine producing around 160 horsepower, it could rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds—a remarkable feat for its time. Its wide stance, flared wheel arches, and aggressive styling made it instantly recognizable, while its mid-engine layout gave it handling characteristics that were both exhilarating and challenging to master.
The Turbo 2 wasn’t just about straight-line speed; it was a car built for corners. Its lightweight construction (weighing just over 900 kilograms) and rear-wheel-drive setup made it a joy on twisty roads or rally stages. However, its short wheelbase and turbo lag meant it could be unforgiving for inexperienced drivers—a trait that only added to its mystique.
Today, the Renault 5 Turbo 2 is considered a classic icon of automotive history. It’s a car that embodies the spirit of Group B rallying—an era defined by innovation, excess, and raw performance. Collectors and enthusiasts alike revere it not just for its performance but for its unique place in motorsport history.
The Restomod: Renault 5 Turbo 3
Fast forward nearly four decades, and the Renault 5’s legacy has been reborn in the form of the Renault 5 Turbo 3, a modern restomod created by Legende Automobiles. While restomods have become increasingly popular in recent years—combining classic designs with modern technology—the Turbo 3 stands out as a particularly thoughtful reinterpretation of an icon.
From the outside, the Turbo 3 stays true to the original’s design ethos while adding contemporary flair. The wide wheel arches are still there but are now crafted from lightweight carbon fiber. LED lighting updates the look without detracting from its retro charm, while modern wheels give it an aggressive stance that hints at its performance potential.
Underneath its striking exterior lies a thoroughly modern machine. The Turbo 3 ditches the original’s turbocharged inline-four in favor of a more powerful engine—reportedly producing over 400 horsepower. While details about its exact specifications are still emerging, this significant power boost ensures that the Turbo 3 is not just about nostalgia; it’s about delivering serious performance by today’s standards.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Turbo 3 is how it blends old-school driving dynamics with modern engineering. The car retains a mid-engine layout and rear-wheel drive but benefits from advancements like improved suspension geometry and modern brakes—features that make it more predictable and capable than its predecessor without losing its raw edge.
Inside, the Turbo 3 strikes a balance between retro aesthetics and contemporary luxury. The minimalist dashboard pays homage to the original design but incorporates digital displays and high-quality materials like Alcantara and carbon fiber. It’s a cabin designed to evoke memories of the past while offering all the comforts expected in a modern performance car.
Classic vs. Modern: Which One Stands Out?
Comparing the Renault 5 Turbo 2 to the Renault 5 Turbo 3 is like comparing two works of art from different eras—each brilliant in its own way but shaped by different philosophies and constraints.
The Turbo 2 is pure nostalgia—a car that represents an era when manufacturers took risks and created machines that were as dangerous as they were exciting. Driving one today is as much about experiencing history as it is about enjoying performance; every turbo whistle and corner slide reminds you of its rally heritage. However, as thrilling as it is, the Turbo 2 requires skill and respect—it’s not a car that forgives mistakes easily.
The Turbo 3, on the other hand, is a celebration of what made the original great while addressing its shortcomings with modern solutions. It’s faster, more refined, and more accessible without losing the character that made enthusiasts fall in love with its ancestor. For those who want all the drama of an old-school rally car without sacrificing comfort or reliability, the Turbo 3 offers an ideal middle ground.
Why These Cars Matter
Both cars highlight why small hatchbacks can be so much more than practical runabouts—they can be platforms for innovation and excitement. The Renault 5’s transformation into a rally legend—and now into a modern restomod—demonstrates how timeless design combined with engineering ingenuity can create something truly special.
For purists who value originality and motorsport pedigree, nothing will replace the visceral thrill of driving a classic like the Renault 5 Turbo 2. But for those who want to experience that same thrill through a modern lens—with added power and reliability—the Renault 5 Turbo 3 proves that restomods can honor their heritage while carving out their own identity.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the raw charm of the classic Renault 5 Turbo or captivated by the futuristic lines of its restomod counterpart, one thing is clear: both cars are masterpieces in their own right.
The Renault brand may have moved on from producing wild rally-inspired hatchbacks like these, but their legacy lives on—not just in museums or private collections but on winding roads where they continue to thrill drivers lucky enough to get behind their wheels.
So which one would you choose—the classic icon or its modern reinvention? Either way, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable driving experience steeped in history and passion for performance.
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