Cars with History: Renault Siete

In 1974, the Renault Siete (spelled out) was launched in Spain, a three-box saloon based on the Renault 5, which arrived to fill a gap created by the design changes applied by European brands at that time, as traditional saloons were being transformed into hatchbacks.

Three-box designs were offered in segments considered higher, such as the Renault 12 or the Peugeot 504. For segment B, there was the Renault Siete. “El Siete” was created by a team of Renault Spain engineers as a fully Spanish project, equipped with an engine of 1,037 cubic centimetres and 50 horsepower. The reason for such a small engine lies in the fact that Spain levied a special tax on cars with engines larger than 1,040 cubic centimetres.

The Siete was not exactly a rocket. It reached a top speed of 132 km/h, and combined consumption was around 6 litres/100 km. It was marketed in two versions: the base model, with no specific designation, and the TL, with some additional cosmetic and comfort details. Over the years (until 1979) two more variants were added and the model was redesigned, also adding accessories such as headrests or brake servo, along with more luxurious details. The 1,037 cc engine was also updated, giving way to a version with the same engine as the R5, the Cleón-Fonte.

The Renault Siete was a car that offered much greater loading convenience and capacity for those customers of the Renault 5 of the time who wanted it. It may have seemed an unorthodox solution, literally a Renault 5 with a boot stuck on, although the rear section was only intended for luggage, since the spare wheel was located in the engine bay and the fuel tank under the floor of the car.

Despite being a model dedicated specifically to Spain, the Siete earned Renault the production of 159,000 units of the model until 1984, the year it was discontinued with the arrival of the Supercinco and the end of the boot-equipped bodies for the 5 range.

Source | Renault Siete Club
Photos | Renault 5.net