| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1981 |
| Production Years: | 1981 - 1986 discontinued in 1986 |
The Renault Rodeo 5 is an iconic off-road vehicle produced by the French automaker Renault from 1981 to 1986. Designed as a compact and versatile option for off-road enthusiasts, the Rodeo 5 highlighted Renault’s commitment to functional utility combined with distinctive styling during the early 1980s. Though compact compared to many larger SUVs, the Rodeo 5 offered capable off-road performance and an approachable size that made it popular for maneuvering rugged terrains and rural environments.
Measuring dimensions typically associated with compact off-roaders of its era, the Renault Rodeo 5 featured a lightweight build facilitating ease of handling and agility off-road. Although specific length, width, and height values vary slightly depending on the model configuration, the Rodeo 5 generally maintained a practical footprint making it suitable for tight trails and urban use alike. This balance of size and capability positioned it uniquely among competitors at the time.
Weighing in significantly lighter than many four-wheel-drive vehicles, the Rodeo 5 could be seen as a precursor to modern compact SUVs, prioritizing simplicity, economy, and ruggedness over heavy-duty performance. Its body style and engineering emphasized durability while maintaining a somewhat playful aesthetic, appealing to customers looking for a leisure vehicle that was both practical and stylish.
As a vehicle produced during the early 1980s, the Rodeo 5’s legacy remains significant in Renault’s off-road portfolio, serving as a notable example of how automakers balanced size, functionality, and off-road ability in a compact footprint. Car size comparisons with present-day SUVs highlight the Rodeo 5’s manageable dimensions, making it smaller and lighter than many contemporary models, yet still capable of fulfilling typical off-road demands of its time.
Discover the standout features that make the 1981 Renault Rodeo 5 a leader in its class
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The Renault Rodeo 5 produced from 1981 to 1986 is an off-road vehicle with compact and practical dimensions suitable for rugged terrain. It measures approximately 3.69 meters (145.3 inches) in length, 1.56 meters (61.4 inches) in width, and stands around 1.59 meters (62.6 inches) in height. These dimensions contribute to its nimble nature, enabling it to maneuver easily off-road while still being practical for narrow trails and paths.
The curb weight of the Renault Rodeo 5 is approximately 780 kilograms (1,720 pounds). This relatively light weight boosts the vehicle's off-road performance by allowing better agility and lower ground pressure. The lighter build helps in managing rough terrain without being excessively heavy, which is advantageous for an off-road utility vehicle, improving fuel efficiency and ease of handling during outdoor adventures.
The Renault Rodeo 5 offers a functional interior tailored for utility and off-road use rather than luxury. It generally accommodates four passengers in a simple, utilitarian cabin. The open-sided design with removable panels in some versions allows for flexible cargo space. Despite its compact exterior, the interior is optimized to carry necessary gear or equipment, making it suitable for outdoor activities, though it’s not meant for heavy cargo hauling.
Yes, the Renault Rodeo 5 fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. The average size of a standard garage door is about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (7.9 to 8.9 feet) in width and about 5.4 meters (17.7 feet) in depth. Given the Rodeo 5's compact footprint — roughly 3.69 meters (12.1 feet) long and 1.56 meters (5.1 feet) wide — it easily fits within these dimensions, allowing for convenient storage and protection from the elements.
Compared to the Renault Rodeo 4, the Rodeo 5 is slightly more compact and refined. The Rodeo 4 generally had similar off-road design cues but was often larger and heavier. The Rodeo 5's reduced length and width enhance maneuverability, making it better suited for tighter trails and urban driving conditions. In terms of height, the Rodeo 5 maintains a comparable stance, preserving ground clearance essential for off-road use while improving overall handling.
In comparison with similar early 1980s off-road vehicles like the Suzuki Jimny or the original Jeep CJ series, the Renault Rodeo 5 is more compact, especially in width and length. For example, the Suzuki Jimny of that era measured about 3.3 meters (10.8 feet) long and 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) wide, making it slightly shorter and narrower than the Rodeo 5. The Rodeo’s wider track and slightly taller height provided a unique balance between stability and maneuverability in off-road conditions while still being easy to park and transport.
The Renault Rodeo 5 offers a ground clearance of approximately 18 centimeters (7 inches), which is adequate for moderate off-road driving. This clearance allows it to handle uneven terrain, small rocks, and light obstacles with relative ease. Combined with its lightweight chassis and four-wheel-drive system found in some variants, the Rodeo 5 delivers reliable off-road performance while being accessible to drivers who need an economical but adventurous vehicle.
While the Renault Rodeo 5 was designed primarily as an off-road and utility vehicle, its compact dimensions and modest proportions make it fairly practical for urban driving as well. The small size facilitates easy parking and maneuvering through narrow city streets, though comfort and noise insulation are basic. It is ideal for owners who want a dual-purpose vehicle for both city commuting and weekend off-road exploration rather than a purely urban car.
The Renault Rodeo 5 was typically equipped with small, fuel-efficient engines suitable for light off-road use and daily driving. A common engine was a 1.1-liter inline-four producing modest horsepower around 34-40 hp depending on markets and tuning, which was sufficient to propel the lightweight chassis. The focus was more on reliability and economy rather than outright power, making it a practical choice for rural or recreational use during the early to mid-1980s.
The dimensions and design of the Renault Rodeo 5 embody the practical, no-frills approach of early 1980s off-road vehicles aimed at utility, affordability, and versatility. Its compact length of approximately 3.69 meters (145.3 inches), narrow width, and moderate height made it adaptable for agricultural use, beach and countryside driving, and light transport duties. The removable panels and simple construction echoed a lifestyle vehicle concept popular at the time, emphasizing convenience, ease of maintenance, and ruggedness over luxury.
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