Believe it or not, the 5 GT Turbo was devised as a publicity tool, to help show off Renault's success with 1000bhp turbo motors in Formula One Racing. The original production Phase One 5 GT Turbo was launched in late 1985, using a 115bhp turbocharged version of the long in the tooth 1397cc pushrod engine. Instantly recognised as a tuneable classic, the GT Turbo launched an entire tuning industry - ask Prima Racing and GT Tuning.

The Phase Two cars were launched in 1987, complete with minor engine mods (better coolant plumbing and relocated ECU) colour-coded bodykits and proper interior centre console with nicer cloth seats. Four years of unchanged production later, the 5 GT Turbo finally died in 1991 on a J-plate, although rumour has it there are 5 or 6 K-platers out there with the replacement in the form of the Clio 16v and the Clio Williams.