History

Believe it or not, the 5 GT Turbo was devised as a publicity tool, to help show off Renault's success with 1000bhp turbo motors in Formula One Racing. The original production Phase One 5 GT Turbo was launched in late 1985, using a 115bhp turbocharged version of the long in the tooth 1397cc pushrod engine. Instantly recognised as a tuneable classic, the GT Turbo launched an entire tuning industry - ask Prima Racing and GT Tuning. The Phase Two cars were launched in 1987, complete with minor engine mods (better coolant plumbing and relocated ECU) colour-coded bodykits and proper interior centre console with nicer cloth seats. Four years of unchanged production later, the 5 GT Turbo finally died in 1991 on a J-plate, although rumour has it there are 5 or 6 K-platers out there with the replacement in the form of the Clio 16v and the Clio Williams.

	The Mk 1 Renault 5 Gordini Turbo.
	Before the GT Turbo came the original Mk 1 Renault 5 Turbo 2 and Alpine. The Turbo 2 had masses of road presence and was only small production hatchback to feature wide arches and the engine in the back like this Turbo 2. In the James Bond film 'Never Say Never Again' they did a complete chase sequence in a wide-arched Turbo 2.
	Original Italian advertisment for the Phase 1 GT Turbo.
	Original advertistment for the later Phase 2 GT Turbo Raider Limited Edition which come with colour coded alloy wheels, black and blue seats and an alarm as standard.