1981 Renault 9 (L42) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Renault 9 ranges between 650 kg and 890 kg (1,433 to 1,962 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. This relatively light weight contributes to the car's nimble handling and decent fuel economy for its era. Lighter weight generally means less effort required from the engine to move the car, which can improve acceleration and reduce fuel consumption, making the Renault 9 economical and agile for everyday driving during the 1980s.

The Renault 9 is equipped with 13-inch rims, typically fitted with tire sizes of 145/80 R13 or 155/70 R13. These tire dimensions strike a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The relatively tall sidewalls of the tires (80% or 70% of the tire width) help absorb road imperfections, contributing to softer ride quality. Meanwhile, the 13-inch rim size is common for vehicles of this size and era, offering decent grip and stability without sacrificing comfort.

Yes, the Renault 9's compact dimensions generally allow it to comfortably fit into a standard single-car garage. Most residential garages are designed to accommodate vehicles up to around 2,500 mm (98 inches) wide and 5,000 mm (197 inches) long. Given the Renault 9's length of roughly 4,200 mm (165 inches) and width near 1,620 mm (64 inches), it fits well within these limits, leaving extra space for opening doors and storage alongside the vehicle.

The Renault 9 (L42) was introduced as a new model rather than a direct size evolution of a predecessor sedan, but it effectively replaced the older Renault 14, which was smaller and more hatchback-oriented. Compared to the Renault 14, the Renault 9 was more traditional in its sedan shape, slightly larger in overall dimensions, offering more interior space and a more conventional boot (trunk). This made the Renault 9 a practical choice for buyers seeking a compact yet roomy sedan during the early 1980s.

In the early 1980s compact sedan segment, the Renault 9 was competitive in size and practicality. Its length of about 4,200 mm (165 inches) placed it comfortably alongside rivals like the Volkswagen Jetta and Ford Escort sedans. Where the Renault 9 often stood out was in its conservative, boxy design that maximized interior space. Its sedan body provided a separate trunk, appealing to buyers who preferred traditional styling over hatchbacks. The Renault 9’s dimensions offered a good blend of manageable external size for city driving with respectable passenger and cargo space.

While precise height data might vary slightly by model and suspension setup, the Renault 9 typically measures around 1,400 mm (55 inches) in height. This moderate height, combined with a practical ground clearance, contributes to a balanced center of gravity, which benefits handling and stability on roads. The car’s height allows for reasonable headroom inside for passengers while maintaining a low enough profile to reduce wind resistance. Its ground clearance is sufficient for typical urban and suburban driving conditions but not designed for rough terrain.

The Renault 9, as a compact sedan, aimed for practicality and functionality. It can comfortably accommodate up to five passengers with adequate legroom and headroom for front and rear occupants, thanks to its boxy design maximizing interior space. The trunk space is generous for the class and period, providing useful cargo capacity for everyday needs such as groceries and luggage, typical for family use and commuting. This balance of passenger comfort and luggage volume reflected Renault's goal to create an affordable and versatile sedan.

The Renault 9 uses 13-inch rims with tire sizes including 145/80 R13 and 155/70 R13, which were standard for compact cars of that era. These tires are characterized by their taller sidewalls offering comfort and adequate grip. Today, both tires and rims of these sizes are relatively easy to find in stores that cater to classic cars or from tire manufacturers producing classic car tire lines. Owners looking to maintain the car’s original specifications typically don’t face difficulties obtaining these sizes, though modern replacements might offer improved materials and performance compared to original 1980s tires.

The Renault 9 (L42) was notable for introducing a traditional and conservative design at a time when hatchbacks were becoming more popular. It featured front-wheel drive and was available with a variety of economical engine options, emphasizing simplicity and fuel efficiency. Its relatively lightweight construction (650 to 890 kg) helped maximize performance with smaller engines. Throughout its production, upgrades were made to improve safety and comfort, including more refined suspension, improved interior ergonomics, and availability of gearboxes like the 5-speed manual and automatic. It was also recognized for its reputation of durability and affordability, making it a popular choice in Europe during the 1980s.