1985 Renault Fuego 2.0 GTX Coupe

Description

Introduced in 1980, Renault’s Fuego (meaning fire in Spanish) was a stylish coupe based on the 18’s front-wheel drive platform, also sharing that model’s drivetrain.  Competing with the likes of Ford’s Capri in Europe and the Mazda RX-7 here in Australia, the flagship Fuego proved remarkably popular, becoming the best-selling car in the sector in the early 1980s and was a big part of Renault’s revitalisation in the all-important North American market.  Styled by Michel Jardin under the direction of Robert Opron, the latter responsible for Citroen’s legendary CX and SM, the Fuego was a sophisticated design and the aerodynamically efficient hatchback body shape boasted a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.35.  Available in a wide range of trim levels in Europe, ranging from the 1.4-litre TL to the range-topping Turbo, the 2-litre GTX was the most common model found in Australia.  Sold here between 1982 and 1987, the GTX was highly optioned with air conditioning, TRX alloy wheels, remote passenger mirror and of course the innovative keyless remote system that remains the Fuego’s signature party piece – dubbed “PLIP”, the pioneering central locking system has since become the norm on all passenger cars.  Other notably features included front fog lights, headlight washer/wipers, a leather-rimmed steering wheel and a digital clock.  The GTX employed Renault’s naturally aspirated all-alloy four-cylinder engine developing 110 horsepower and a choice of either five-speed manual or automatic transmissions.  The interior was typical of a funky Eighties European sports coupe, with plenty of toys and swathes of plastic and velour.  Once a common sight on Australian roads, the quirky Fuego has all but disappeared, making the car offered here a rare sight.