Renault 5 2nd Gen Polycarbonate Windows

The Renault 5 was already a legend by the time the second generation arrived in 1984. The original model had defined Renault’s approach to small, stylish, and practical hatchbacks, but the new version took things to another level. With modern styling, improved engineering, and a wider range of engines, the second-gen Renault 5 built on everything that made the first one great while keeping that unmistakable French charm.
The most noticeable change was the styling. Where the first Renault 5 had soft, rounded lines and quirky details, the second generation had a more angular, aerodynamic design. It was still compact and playful-looking, but with sharper edges, a wider stance, and improved aerodynamics that made it look more contemporary. It was also more spacious inside, with Renault improving practicality without sacrificing the small-car appeal that made it such a hit in the first place.
Underneath, the second-gen Renault 5 shared its platform with the Renault 9 and 11, making it more refined and better suited to modern driving. Suspension improvements meant it was more stable at high speeds, more comfortable on long journeys, and generally more refined than its predecessor. Despite these updates, it still retained that nimble, lightweight feel that made it such a joy to throw around city streets and back roads.
Renault offered a wide range of engines, from small, fuel-efficient 1.0-litre and 1.1-litre units to more powerful 1.4-litre and 1.7-litre versions. These engines were reliable, economical, and perfect for city driving, making the Renault 5 a favourite among European drivers looking for a stylish, practical, and affordable hatchback.
Then, of course, there was the GT Turbo, the version that turned this little French hatchback into a true hot hatch legend. With a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 120 horsepower, the Renault 5 GT Turbo could hit 0-60 mph in under 8 seconds, putting it in direct competition with icons like the Peugeot 205 GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTI. Lightweight, quick, and full of character, the GT Turbo remains one of the most beloved hot hatches of the 1980s, combining boosted power with razor-sharp handling and an unmistakable sense of fun.
Inside, the Renault 5 was simple but effective, with a driver-focused layout, comfortable seats, and just enough technology to feel modern without being overcomplicated. It was a car designed for daily usability, but one that always made driving feel like an event, whether you were navigating busy city streets or enjoying a spirited drive through the countryside.
Production of the second-gen Renault 5 lasted until 1996, when it was replaced by the Renault Clio. By the time it bowed out, the Renault 5 had cemented its place as one of Renault’s most successful and best-loved cars, selling in huge numbers and leaving behind a legacy that still resonates with enthusiasts today.
Whether you remember it as a trusty city car, an exciting hot hatch, or just a stylish little runabout, the Renault 5 remains one of the defining small cars of its era. It was charming, practical, and just a little bit cheeky, everything a great hatchback should be.