Flying on to the scene in 1976, the 5 Alpine was Renault’s first bite of the fresh hot hatchback market. Based on the popular 5, a mild supermini, the Alpine was a nippy version inspired by the company’s rally successes. The UK finally got a version, the Gordini, three years later. 

It was fun to drive as it was lightweight, lively and with a touch of understeer that meant you could still “slide backwards” if desired. These compact cocktails had strengthened front wings and rear wheel arches and all the accessories needed to look the part, including fog lights incorporated into the chunky front bumper.

These special 5s set the tone for future hot hatch offerings from Renault, with the Gordini Turbo released in 1982 and the legendary 5 Turbo in 1980. The company are still releasing hot hatch versions of the 5 today - the launch of the production 5 Turbo 3E is highly anticipated after the success of the unveiling of the concept in 2022. Only 1980 units will be made and prices start from £140,000!

On loan from Andy Mewis.