As the pioneer supermini that achieved strong market success, this Renault R5 in our review keeps its playful spirit intact from launch. We must assess if this well-preserved model carries an equally bold asking price.

Annually, between 800 and 1,000 people try to reach the top of Mount Everest. That figure might rise sharply if a paved route existed to the summit. At 29,032 feet, the low oxygen levels demand extra air for climbers and would challenge standard engines too. A lack of power outlets rules out electric options for such a trip, yet a boosted powertrain like the one in the 2005 Jaguar S-Type R reviewed earlier this week would suit the task well.

Beyond power, the Jaguar's sport-tuned suspension and refined cabin would enhance comfort on the journey. At just $7,990, funds would remain for mementos from base camp. Readers agreed, awarding the Jag a strong 74 percent Nice Price victory.

Everyday icons without capes

In 1977, comedian and banjo master Steve Martin issued a comedy record titled "Let's Get Small." The title likely nodded to the wave of compact cars that entered the market in the years before. One early supermini was Renault's R5, launched in 1972 and soon becoming France's top seller. Though it used a fresh unibody, the small R5 borrowed engines and suspension from the earlier R4. Renault began with a three-door hatch, later adding a five-door model that helped popularize the format. It also pioneered plastic bumpers on a mass-produced vehicle.

This 1982 R5 features the five-door layout, a fabric sunroof, three-spoke 13-inch alloys, and European-spec lights and bumpers. With only 46,755 miles, it shows limited wear.

Engine placement innovation

Renault saved costs by using the R4 powertrain in the R5, which also appeared in the rear-engine R8. This setup positions the engine aft of the transmission, classifying both the R4 and R5 as mid-engine designs. In the United States, the 1,289cc four produced a restricted 51 horsepower by this year. Paired with the standard four-speed manual, performance stays modest yet engaging.

The ad describes the car as running and driving well in excellent shape. Photos show it complete, important since some parts grow scarce. Its strong condition makes it worth considering for R5 buyers.

The Le Car branding

The cabin offers surprising room for the size, plus roll-down rear windows that help on a car without air conditioning. The red and black vinyl seats appear replaced, as they differ from surrounding trim colors, yet everything looks neat. The drivetrain layout pushes the engine far into the cabin, forcing the stereo to mount vertically ahead of the shifter.

Initially sold as the R5 in the United States, the model gained traction after an agency renamed it Le Car. This example lacks the original door decals, which is no major drawback.

Small size, large cost?

Title details are absent from the Marketplace post. A clean title seems likely, and the offered Carfax would verify it. The ad notes the car appeared for sale over a year ago, an extended period for such listings. This may tie to the $15,500 price.

The sum seems high for the size, yet the model is uncommon now and appears well kept. That combination could support the cost. The choice rests with you.

How do you view this R5 and its $15,500 tag? Does the figure align with what the car merits, or does it prompt second thoughts?

Decide for yourself!