The R5T3 is a modern take on the 1980s success story.
Automakers are preparing to retire the traditional hot hatch powered internally combustion engines, in order to comply with strict emissions regulations. There are still hope. Aftermarket companies are keen to preserve the spirit and bring back some of the greatest hits from the past. Legende Automobiles, a new company in the Restomod industry, aims to revive a 1980s classic, the Renault 5 Turbo.
The Turbo 3 retains the design DNA of the original three-door R5, but is updated with modern technology. The Turbo 3’s custom-built body is primarily made of carbon fiber and has been widened to accommodate larger 16-inch front wheels and 17-inch wheels. There are two options for this design.
Legende Automobiles’ R5 T3 replaces the old-school bulbs with LEDs, but retains the distinctive look of its predecessor. The C-pillar’s air curtains are functional and visual nods towards the Turbo1 and Turbo 2, while the quarter glass frame is made of carbon fiber. As part of a contrasting finish, the extended roof spoiler is finished in red on the rear end. This spoiler can also be found on the wheel centers, side mirrors and A-pillars.
The custom-made two-piece rear diffuser houses the dual exhaust tips. They have a square shape that complements the angular design, paying tribute to Renault’s design. The Turbo 3 is low to the ground, and features a double-wishbone suspension at both the front and back. This configuration is a modern version of the R5 Maxi Turbo racecar.
Legende Automobiles fitted the Turbo 3’s with dual-zone automatic climate control, ultra-thin seats with ample lateral support, and a racing harness. A roll cage is located on top of the engine compartment, where a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generates 400 horsepower.
This is a significant improvement on the original 158-hp output. The engine now goes to the rear wheels via a modern sequential transmission, or manual (depending upon suppliers), and replaces the five-speed manual gearbox from the donor car. We haven’t been given any details about the engine, but we are told that it is a modern powertrain similar to what one would expect from a full restoration project.
Legende Automobiles has been selling a small number of the Renault 5 Turbo 1s and 3,167 Turbo 2s over the six-year period that the model was on the market. Although it is not clear how many owners will choose to restomod, the company claims that it has “ignored all financial advice” and spent no money in order to make this the best version of the B segment icon.