We recently learned that Alpine is launching a spicier version of the upcoming Renault 5 electric, capable of evoking the spirit of the R5 Turbo. But for the more “purists”, there is another Renault 5 Turbo on the way… and this one is powered by “octane”.
Called Turbo 3, this “hot hatch” was created by the French company Legende Automobiles, which was founded by Alan Derosier (car designer), Charly Bompas (double) and Pierre Chaveyriat (competition car manufacturer and owner of BloodMotorsport).
The objective of this group of enthusiasts was simple: to combine the best of the Turbo 1 and Turbo 2 versions of the Renault 5 and create a proposal with modern technology, more powerful and even lighter.
This was the starting point for the creation of Turbo 3, a restomod that according to those responsible for Legende Automobiles was designed with “no financial commitment” in mind.
No sooner said than done. The result is a restomod that almost completely respects the lines of the original model, although it adds some “modern” touches, starting right away with the LED luminous signature.
But one of the biggest differences is actually in the composition of the body, which is now made of carbon fiber, for an even lower weight.
The rear spoiler that helps to extend the roofline also doesn't go unnoticed, as are the 16” front and 17” wheels. But it's the two square tailpipes, inserted in an air diffuser that “takes care” of almost the entire rear bumper, that steal all the attention.
But if on the outside the lines of the original model were respected, inside it's almost everything new. Thanks to that, we have a digital instrument panel, a custom-made two-spoke steering wheel and modern (physical) controls for the two-zone air conditioning.
But it is the very light sports seats, the six-point seat belts, the sequential box with the mechanism almost completely on display and the safety “cage” that stand out the most.
As for the engine, and although Legende Automobiles did not specify the technical details, it is known that it will be a “modern four-cylinder turbo engine” — mounted in a central position — with approximately 406 hp to be sent exclusively to the rear wheels .
This small Gallic company has not revealed how many units of the Turbo 3 it plans to produce or for how much it will sell them for. But judging by the first images, there will be plenty of people interested in taking one of these R5 Turbo 3 home, don't you think?