Description
In 1980 Renault introduced the new R5 Turbo as a pure homologation special to compete in Group 4 racing and international rallies. The 5 Turbo was based on the production Renault 5 Alpine, but Renault engineers scrapped the standard front-engine, front wheel drive layout in favour of a mid-engine, rear-drive setup. In 1981 Jean Ragnotti and his co-driver Jean-Marc Andrie won the Monte Carlo Rally outright for Renault, and the following year Ragnotti won the Tour de Corse. In 1984 Group B homologation was sought for the Renault 5 Maxi Turbo to enable it to contest the World Rally Championship. Ragnotti added another Tour de Corse win with the 5 Maxi Turbo in 1985. After the first batch of 400 road cars had been made to satisfy Group 4 homologation volume requirements, a second generation, known as the Turbo 2 was to follow.
This wonderful example was upgraded by the factory to Stage II specification, and delivers a very healthy 185bhp. With just two owners and 17,000 miles in its 35 years, the Turbo II is very original, has never been restored and is offered with a detailed history file containing a title document and receipts for works completed. Finished in Red with Beige velour trim, this is a cracking example of an 80s homologation special superstar!
