Renault 5 GT Turbo (Renault 5)

Member Name: AaronJB

Product:	Renault 5
Date:	22/10/00 (1622 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Fast, fun car

Disadvantages: Hard to maintain, can be unreliable

I’ve owned my 1989 Phase 2 GT Turbo for a few months now – it’s my second car (to a Renault 19 16v), which I bought for something to work on, and something fun and smaller to throw around the country lanes.

The build quality is typical of late 80’s Renault basically – although my car seems to suffer less squeaks and rattles than my 1994 Renault 19 – others aren’t so lucky. Mechanically sound in standard trim, they do tend to get abused – so watch carefully for thrashed, smokey and rattly engines. The bodywork can rust badly if not cared for – so that is another area to check before buying. Have a look at the buying guide on the UK Owners Club site for good information – www.gtturbo.org

It’s best to buy a totally standard, late model (Phase 2) car, with low miles if you can – high milers, and modified cars tend to be thrashed. It’s good to try and get a car with at least some (full is rare) service history.

The spec is good for a car of it’s age – electric windows, optional sunroof, front foglamps, adjustable seats with good side bolsters etc. Certainly a very good package for the prices you can pick them up for these days.

If you are after a fast, fun car for the weekend – and you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, then I’d say go for it! You’ll not regret it.

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