Renault 5 Alpine
The Renault 5 was a supermini produced by the French automaker Renault between 1972 and 1996. It was sold in the U.S. as the Renault Le Car in the 1970s and 1980s.
The first generation, produced from 1972-1984, was Renault's first foray into the supermini market and was instantly recognizable by its steeply sloping rear hatchback and front fascia, designed by Michel Boue who sadly died before the car's release. Powering the R5 were OHV engines ranging from 850 to 1400 cc, borrowed from the Renault 4, Renault 8 and Renault 12. Other features included a dashboard-mounted gearshift, replaced later with a floor mounted shifter, and door handles formed from cut-outs in the door panels and B-pillar.
The Renault 5 Alpine (Gordini in the United Kingdom), Alpine/Gordini Turbo, and a four-door sedan model, the Renault 7, built by FASA-Renault of Spain, were among the versions of the first car. U.S. versions were sold as the Renault Le Car, featuring a 1297cc engine that produced 55hp, and a floor mounted gear shift. Sales continued through 1984.
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