"The Renault 5 was launched onto the right hand drive UK market in the autumn of 1972, where, alongside the recently launched Fiat 127, it competed as an imported but more modern alternative to British Leyland's Mini and Chrysler Europe's Hillman Imp. The 5 narrowly missed out on the 1973 European Car of the Year award, which was instead given to the Audi 80.
The R5 borrowed mechanicals from the similarly popular Renault 4, using a longitudinally-mounted engine driving the front wheels with torsion bar suspension. OHV engines were borrowed from the Renault 4 and larger Renault 8; there was a choice, at launch, between 782cc and 956cc according to price level. The 5TS and 5LS both with the 1,289cc engine from the Renault 12 was added from April 1974. As on the Renault 4, entry level Renault 5’s had their engine sizes increased to 845cc in 1976 and at the top of the range later models had the engine sizes expanded to 1,397cc. The Renault 5 went on to enjoy cult status when the turbo and rear engine Group B derived Maxi cars were introduced.
The car offered on sale here is an incredibly rare convertible R5 TX, believed to be a Cleveland conversion. Renault never produced a convertible R5 themselves but Cleveland offered the service and later in 1989 the Belgium firm EBS. The Clevelandbodywork incorporates a sturdy roll-over bar and chassis strengthening members. All exposed metal areas were fully treated and rust proofed before final assembly. The opening boot, combined with folding rear seats, provided access to a generous luggage space. The rear parcel shelf facilitates the neat stowage of the hood and provides extra space when the hood is raised. It can be raised and lowered by one person in just a few moments.
This car has benefitted from a recent bare metal respray in its attractive metallic blue. The interior is in incredible condition for a car of its age and shows little sign of wear. The TX models were the top specification for the R5 range; including power steering, electric windows and alloy wheels. Having covered 75,000 miles this car offers a unique opportunity to acquire a truly rare car and one you would be lucky to see another example of.
The car is supplied with a V5C registration document, MoT test certificate that expires in December 2018 and unique A100 OVJ number plate.
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