Renault 5 Hatchback 1985-
  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    The finance package was great. The bean-counters were about, though.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Serviced every 6,000 miles. Could get expensive, those French parts.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    A roller skate. Ludicrous moves tolerated and executed without heart-failure.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    For a 1.1, it seemed faster than it was. Very light steering.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Ate clutch cables and driveshafts. Never happy with unleaded. Can stand abuse, though.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    For its time, a car you didn't apologize about owning.

    Comfort

    2 out of 5 2.0

    No centre vents? OK for storing cassettes, but you sweat in the summer.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    2 out of 5 2.0

    A key locks the doors. That's all, folks.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Used to be great, but the new plush showroom equalled rubbish service.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Unleaded petrol killed a reliable engine. Lasts for 100,000 on 4*.

    Other

    Terrible clutch cable angle. Snaps on the pedal. Alternators are rubbish. A rewind lasts longer.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes