Renault 5 (France, 1985-1996)

In 1984, Renault presented the second generation of the ‘5’ at the Paris Auto Salon. This new R5 is mostly referred to as ‘Superfive’, or in its homeland language (French) ‘Supercinq’.
In 1985 the French brand set off the production of the second and ultimate generation of the Renault 5.

Aesthetic changes are very evident when compared to the previous generation, as its bodywork is totally renovated, even though the design maintains its traditional styling roots.
There were also some mechanic alterations, such as the use of a simpler suspension and a transverse powertrain.

The production of the Renault Super 5 went on through the 1990’s but it would soon be replaced by a new Renault model, the Clio, in the beginning of the decade. Finally, the French automaker put an end to the R5’s 24-year lifetime in 1996.

The engines that the Super 5 is built with have a displacement capacity that range from a minimum 1.0 L to a maximum 1.6 L. Non-turbo petrol-powered engines are available with 1.0-, 1.1- and 1.4-liter displacements, while the turbocharged unit comes only with 1.4 L. The R5’s diesel engine has a 1.6 L capacity.
While the Turbo GT variant of the Super 5 can produce up to 118 hp, the non-turbocharged versions have power outputs that start at 42 hp and reach their pick at a 94-hp model.
The Renault Super 5 has its top speed at 127 mi/h (204 km/h), which it achieves only with its Turbo GT version.
This second generation R5 is also driven by its front wheels and by a 4- or 5-speed manual transmission (depending on the variants).

Unitary steel frame.   Platform Based on the platform used for the Renault 9 and 11.   Suspension McPherson struts.   Steering Rack-and-pinion.   Brakes Renault 5’s braking layout was available with front discs and rear drums or with all-round disc brakes.

Despite the Super 5’s all-new bodywork, its basic design lines and traditional style remained pretty much the same.
Marcello Gandini was responsible for the development of the second generation Renault 5. The hatchback remained available with 3 and 5 doors, like its predecessor did.