1991 Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) from the 1991 to 1992 model years has a curb weight of approximately 1,065 kilograms (2,348 pounds). This weight reflects the typical mass of the vehicle including all necessary operating consumables like fuel and oil but without passengers or cargo. The relatively light weight contributes to improved handling characteristics and agility, enhancing the driving experience typical of a small, sporty cabriolet. However, compared to hardtop versions of the Renault 19, the cabriolet's open-top construction adds structural reinforcements which could slightly increase weight.

Yes, the Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its length of approximately 4,095 mm (161.2 inches) and width of about 1,635 mm (64.4 inches), it is smaller than typical mid-sized cars, making it easy to park in common single-car or double-car garages. Its low height of 1,340 mm (52.8 inches) also poses no clearance issues for most garage door heights, which typically range between 2,000 mm (78.7 inches) to 2,400 mm (94.5 inches). This compact size is particularly convenient for owners with limited parking space.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53), produced from 1991 to 1992, is a direct convertible derivative of the Renault 19 hatchback which debuted in 1988. Dimensionally, the cabriolet shares a very similar footprint with the hatchback, having almost identical length and width measurements, with slight variations due to the cabriolet's structural reinforcements and convertible top mechanisms. Whereas the hatchback's height might be marginally taller due to its roof structure, the cabriolet is lower in overall height, enhancing its sporty appeal. This generation did not drastically change in size from earlier Renault 19 variants, maintaining a compact and practical profile.

When compared to other popular convertibles from the early 1990s, such as the Peugeot 205 Cabriolet or the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet, the Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) falls within a similar compact size range. Its length of roughly 4,095 mm (161.2 inches) and width around 1,635 mm (64.4 inches) place it marginally larger than the Peugeot 205 Cabriolet but somewhat comparable in footprint to the Golf Cabriolet. This size balance offers a good blend of practicality and sporty dimensions, while the Renault’s design cues and proportions create a unique presence in the class of compact European convertibles of that era.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) is configured as a four-seater convertible, offering seating for the driver and three passengers. The seating layout is traditional, with two individual front seats and a rear bench seat suitable for two occupants. While rear seat space is somewhat limited, especially with the convertible’s roof design affecting headroom, it is generally adequate for shorter trips or for accommodating smaller passengers comfortably. This seating setup makes it practical as a sporty vehicle for couples or small families wanting the open-air experience.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 50 liters (13.2 US gallons). This capacity, combined with the car’s relatively lightweight and efficient engine options, generally provides a respectable driving range suitable for both city commuting and longer journeys. Depending on the engine variant and driving conditions, the fuel economy can vary, but the tank size allows for practical usability without frequent refueling stops, which is especially convenient for a convertible sports car where open-road drives are common.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet (D53) from 1991-1992 typically came with a range of four-cylinder engines, including small displacement petrol units around 1.7 liters delivering balanced performance with fuel economy. Transmission options generally included a 5-speed manual gearbox, which was favored for a more engaging driving experience in this lightweight convertible. Some variants may have offered automatic transmissions, though the manual remained the preferred choice for those seeking a sportier feel. These powertrain options were designed to complement the car’s compact format and cabriolet dynamics.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet’s design, characterized by a lower height of 1,340 mm (52.8 inches) and a sleek, open-top layout, aims to balance aerodynamic efficiency with an engaging convertible driving experience. The lower profile reduces wind resistance when the top is up, contributing to better fuel economy and stability at higher speeds. The cabriolet configuration enhances the sensory aspects of driving, offering strong wind-in-the-hair sensation and an open-air feel, while reinforced chassis components help maintain structural rigidity and handling precision despite the absence of a fixed roof.

The Renault 19 I Cabriolet has a modest trunk space, typical of small convertibles, with approximately 250 liters (8.8 cubic feet) of cargo capacity when the roof is up. This capacity can decrease slightly when the convertible top is lowered and stored in the compartment, reducing available space. Compared to hardtop hatchbacks in the Renault 19 lineup, this is less convenient for larger cargo but fairly standard for the convertible segment of the early 1990s. Owners often need to consider space-efficient packing for travel, but day-to-day usability remains practical for smaller luggage loads.