From its 1972 debut onward the Renault 5 proved a massive success, and in 1981 there appeared a special and rather different Renault 5 Turbo version of the car, intended to run in global rally races. The rear seats were removed and replaced with a midship- mounted 160hp 1.4-liter inline-four engine that was paired with a turbocharger and fuel injection technology to provide a top speed of 200km/h and an impressive 0-400m time of just fifteen seconds. Renault were not satisfied with simply changing the engine, though, giving the 5 Turbo double wishbone suspension and ventilated brake discs. The body was also updated and had prominent overfenders; its use of aluminum roof and doors, as well as plastic bonnet and fenders meant that the car weighed in at a mere 910kg. Inside the car was a dashboard with no less than ten different meters, and an interior with liberal use of leather. The Renault 5 Turbo was able to put its money where its mouth was, taking a debut rally win in 1981 in Monte-Carlo and going on to compete in numerous events during its career.

With the new, full-size Renault 5 coming back as a fully electric car in 2024, the Tamiya 1/24 scale model comes back as a Limited Production run re-issue with updated decals and instruction manual.

The Renault 5 Turbo made its debut in 1980. Based upon the Renault 5, it was developed for global rally races. The 1.4-liter inline-4 turbo engine capable of 160hp was equipped at the rear instead of seats, and lightweight aluminum and FRP panels were employed. This car caught people’s eye with its powerful form, bulging over fenders and sumptuous interior!

The Renault 5 Turbo was a version of the popular Renault 5 which was specially developed with an eye on rallying. This sporty car makes a triumphant comeback in Tamiya 1/24 scale for the first time in 25 years. 

Bulging overfenders give the body a seriously sporty look.