Manufacturer: Carrosso Classic & Sportscars
Eekstraat 2, 8375HN Oldemarkt, NL
Phone: 0625351515
Website: http://www.carrosso.com
Email: [email protected]
See below for information in English
1973 Renault 5 L
Previously restored. Beautiful bright "Rouge" color. Interior in good condition. Rebuilt 845 cc four-cylinder "Billancourt" engine and a four-speed manual transmission. Exempt from road tax and vehicle inspection in the Netherlands.
History
The now-iconic Renault 5, famous as the successor to the Renault 5 and recently reintroduced into production, highlights the popularity of this car’s retro look. This particular car was imported from Italy in 2026. It was delivered new in 1973 by the Renault dealer in Pezze di Greco, Italy. The original dealer sticker is still on the rear window. Production of the Renault 5 began in 1972, making this an early production model.
The last owner from Milan specifically sought out an R5 L with the distinctive "umbrella" gearshift, as a fan of the Renault R4 (owning a 1971 TL and a 1977 Safari). He purchased the car in 2014 and had it transported by truck from Brindisi to Milan for restoration. Restoration was challenging due to a scarcity of parts, as R5s have virtually disappeared in Italy.
In 2017, the car was featured in a detailed article in an Italian classic car magazine. The odometer read 34,800 km at that time, with nearly 10,000 km added since. Because it is over 50 years old, the Renault is exempt from road tax and the APK inspection in the Netherlands.
Exterior
The red paintwork, color code F733, has a beautiful sheen but shows some imperfections. Notable details include sporty grilles next to the rear window, handle-less doors, an air intake on the hood, and side turn signals integrated into Renault’s window-shaped logo. The chrome trim has a patina, and rubber components are in good, restored condition. The 13-inch wheels are fitted with neat chrome hubcaps. Lights and windows are in good condition with no cracks. The gray plastic bumpers are also in good condition. The tires still have sufficient tread.
Interior
The Renault 5 marked a turning point in automotive history. Compared to the Fiat 127, it had the advantage of being a three-door model, while many competitors lacked a tailgate. Like the R4, the R5 initially had the gearshift lever positioned high on the dashboard. The long side door facilitates easy entry.
The interior offers exceptional comfort for such a small car, with long-travel suspension, a quiet engine, and soft seats—hence the nickname "French suspension." The interior has been restored neatly, with upholstery reupholstered based on an original example and door panels thoroughly cleaned. The side panels are covered in faux leather. The headliner is a work of art. Floor mats are present throughout. The interior shows only minimal signs of wear, with side panels and the dashboard in good condition, free of damage or weathering. The trunk is very neat.
Technical
The Renault 5 is equipped with a small 782 cc four-cylinder gasoline engine from the "Billancourt" family, producing approximately 34 horsepower. It drives the front wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, which was quite modern for its time. The engine is mounted transversely in the front, with the transmission next to it, maintaining a compact design.
