The Renault 5 GT Turbo (1985–1991) is the second-generation “Supercinq” with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four, 115 PS (Phase 1) or 120 PS (Phase 2), and a curb weight under 1,900 lb. Renault had left the US market by the time it launched, and it was never sold here. Every GT Turbo is now over 25 years old and legal to import.
Why Americans want it
It is the affordable cousin of the mid-engine R5 Turbo, with the same era, the same boxy flares and a fraction of the price. It is lighter than a 205 GTI, it has a turbo, and it is one of the most-watched 1980s hot hatches on YouTube. US buyers have very few to choose from; we source them in Portugal, Spain and France.
What was never sold in the US
- Model: the entire Supercinq range (1984–1996), including the GT Turbo. The US received the first-generation R5 as “Le Car” through 1983 only.
- Engine: 1,397 cc Cléon-Fonte with a Garrett T2 turbo and a carburetor: 115 PS (Phase 1, 1985–1987), 120 PS (Phase 2, 1987–1991, with intercooler and electronic ignition).
- Transmission: 5-speed manual.
- Editions: Raider (1990, dark blue, roughly 1,200 built), various national special editions.
Eligible years (25-year rule)
Every Renault 5 GT Turbo is eligible now. Nothing switches over in 2027 or 2028. The mid-engine R5 Turbo and Turbo 2 (1980–1986) are also fully eligible and sourced on request.
What to look for
- Rust: rear axle mounts, inner sills, the front strut towers, the lower windshield frame and the tailgate. Southern cars are far better; we photograph the underside.
- Engine: the carbureted turbo runs hot. Look for a documented head gasket, a healthy turbo (no smoke on boost), and the hot-start behavior (a known weakness, often fixed with a heat shield and carb insulator).
- Originality: many were tuned or crashed; we check the chassis number, engine number and the Phase 1/Phase 2 details claimed.
- Interior: the specific seats and door cards are hard to find; a complete interior adds value.
- Documents: French carte grise or EU registration, build plate, service history.
Typical landed price
Europe: roughly €14,000–€25,000. Landed at Newark or Baltimore with duty at the rate in effect on entry: roughly $23,000–$37,000.
Registration notes
- California: post-1975, gasoline; CARB lab certification applies, not guaranteed.
- Fuel: gasoline.
- Title: 17-character VIN. US title from Salvage Motors LLC.
Our take
Phase 2 is the better car to live with: intercooled, more power, fewer hot-start tantrums. Buy a straight, original one, and leave the big-turbo conversions for the track crowd. At this price the shell is everything.
FAQ
Phase 1 or Phase 2?
Phase 2 (1987–1991) is more reliable and slightly quicker. Phase 1 is purer and rarer.
Is it related to the R5 Turbo?
Only by name and era. The R5 Turbo is mid-engine and sells for $100,000 and up; the GT Turbo is front-engine and front-drive.
Can I get parts?
Mechanical parts are shared with other Renaults and are inexpensive; GT Turbo-specific body and interior parts are sourced in France.