1996 Renault Sport Spider Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Renault Sport Spider is notably lightweight, with a curb weight of approximately 930 kg (2050 lbs) and a maximum weight of 1130 kg (2491 lbs). This low weight enhances the vehicle's dynamic capabilities, allowing for rapid acceleration, responsive handling, and improved agility. The reduction in mass is particularly important for a sports car, as it leads to better cornering grip and overall driving excitement. Being lightweight also positively influences braking efficiency and fuel consumption, making the Renault Sport Spider a pure driver's car focused on performance.

The Renault Sport Spider offers a modest luggage capacity of 78 liters (approximately 2.75 cubic feet). This limited storage space reflects the car's primary focus on sportiness and minimalism rather than practicality. While sufficient for small bags or a couple of compact items, this capacity is quite limited for larger trips or extensive cargo. Buyers should consider this when evaluating the car for daily use or travel, as the vehicle is more suited for spirited drives and weekend outings rather than extensive cargo carrying.

The Renault Sport Spider comes equipped with 16-inch rims, paired with tires sized at 225/55 R16. This combination balances sporty performance with adequate tire contact for traction and stability. The relatively wide 225mm tire width supports good grip during cornering and acceleration, while the 55 aspect ratio maintains a balance between comfort and responsive handling. The 16-inch rim size is typical for sport-oriented vehicles of the period, providing a good compromise between agility, ground clearance, and aesthetic appeal.

Yes, the Renault Sport Spider fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With its compact dimensions—3795 mm (149.4 inches) in length, 1830 mm (72.0 inches) in width, and 1250 mm (49.2 inches) in height—it is smaller than many modern sports cars. Most standard garages typically have a width of around 2400 to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches) and a height clearance above 2000 mm (78.7 inches), providing ample space for the Sport Spider. Its compact footprint ensures easy parking and maneuverability even in tighter urban garage spaces.

The Renault Sport Spider is a distinct model without a direct predecessor, but compared to other Renault sport or roadster models like the Renault Clio Williams or the Renault Mégane Cabriolet from the era, it is more focused and compact. Its length of 3795 mm places it shorter than most small convertibles, while its width of 1830 mm is relatively wide for enhanced stability. Unlike more practical convertibles, the Sport Spider is barebones and lightweight, emphasizing driving dynamics rather than comfort or cargo capacity. This makes it unique among Renault's lineup in the mid-1990s.

With an overall height of just 1250 mm (49.2 inches), the Renault Sport Spider is very low to the ground. This low profile reduces aerodynamic drag and lowers the car's center of gravity, both of which are beneficial for high-speed stability and sharp handling. The car's height contributes to a focused and engaging driving experience, essential for a sports car designed with minimal bodywork and wind deflection features. Drivers can enjoy enhanced road feedback and a grounded feel, although entry and exit might require some flexibility due to its low seating position.

At roughly 930 kg (2050 lbs), the Renault Sport Spider is considerably lighter than many sports cabriolets from the 1990s. Comparable vehicles like the Mazda MX-5 Miata (first generation) typically weigh around 950-1000 kg, while others might be significantly heavier. The Sport Spider’s lightweight construction was achieved through minimalistic design, no roof mechanism, and focus on performance, making it stand out for its excellent power-to-weight ratio. This light weight advantage means more agile handling, quicker braking, and enhanced acceleration, reinforcing its reputation as a driver's car.

The Sport Spider has a width of 1830 mm (72.0 inches), which is relatively wide for a compact sports car. This generous width improves road presence and gives the vehicle a more aggressive stance. From a performance perspective, the wider track enhances lateral stability during cornering, allowing for better grip and reduced body roll. This width helps to balance the car's lightweight chassis, providing the driver with confidence when pushing the limits on twisty roads or racing circuits.

The Renault Sport Spider is unique among sports cars primarily because of its minimalist approach to performance and design. It was built as a raw, open-top roadster without a traditional roof, emphasizing light weight and driving purity over comfort and convenience. Its aggressive precursors include race-inspired details and extensive use of lightweight materials. Unlike many contemporaries equipped with various luxury features, the Sport Spider focuses on delivering an unfiltered driving experience, making it a niche vehicle cherished by enthusiasts seeking direct connection with the road.