Renault 16 (1965-80)

The Renault 16, an innovative family car produced from 1965 to 1979, introduced several groundbreaking features. However, like any classic vehicle, it had its share of quirks and common issues:
Rust Vulnerability
The Renault 16 could rust more comprehensively than an Alfasud. Inspect the bodywork thoroughly, paying attention to areas like the sills, floorpans, valances, and wheel arches.
Column-Change Gearbox:
The column-change gearbox was popular on the continent but less favored by British buyers.
Despite this, most owners found it light and smooth to operate.
Hatchback Rear End:
The Renault 16’s claim to fame was its hatchback rear end. It introduced practicality to large, mainstream family cars, pre-dating rivals like the Austin Maxi (which debuted in 1969).
Engine and Performance
The Renault 16TX was the top model, featuring luxury cabins and a 90 mph capability.
Its lively alloy engines delivered fine performance, and the disc brakes were powerful.
The 1973 Renault 16TX, the ultimate version, boasted a 1647cc 93bhp engine, five-speed transmission, and quad headlights.
Even today, well-maintained Renault 16s remain great drives.
Remember that while the Renault 16 had its quirks, it played a significant role in shaping the modern family car.
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Generations
The **Renault 16 (R16)** was produced over a **single generation** by French automaker Renault between **1965 and 1980**. Widely noted as the first French winner of the European Car of the Year award, the R16 was a groundbreaking family hatchback. During its production run, a total of **1,845,959 R16s** were manufactured¹. The car sold well across Europe, praised for its spacious and comfortable interior as well as its effectively unique hatchback bodystyle. Although it was marketed in the United States (with only a small number sold), it found considerably more success in Canada, where Renault manufactured the R16 from knock-down kits¹. The Renault 16 introduced the hatchback bodystyle to the mid-size family segment, allowing the interior to be configured in seven different ways. Its unequal wheelbase (left to right) was another notable feature, similar to the earlier Renault 4 and later Renault 5.
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Engines
The **Renault 16 (R16)** was offered with different engine options during its production. Let's explore the engines used in this innovative family hatchback:

1. **1,470 cc Engine (GL Models)**:
- The **1,470 cc** engine was used in **GL saloons and estate cars**.
- It produced **55 PS (40 kW; 54 hp)** and provided adequate performance for everyday driving.

2. **1,565 cc Engine (TS Models)**:
- The **1,565 cc** engine was featured in **TS saloons and estate cars**.
- With **84 PS (62 kW; 83 hp)**, the TS offered better acceleration and a top speed of over **100 mph (160 km/h)**.

These engine options allowed buyers to choose between practicality and performance, making the Renault 16 a versatile and successful model!
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **Renault 16** spare parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **EU-SPARES Shop**:
- The **EU-SPARES Shop** offers a comprehensive range of **OE original parts** for the **Renault 16**.
- They provide parts for various components, including **seals**, **spark plugs**, **brake fluid**, **bellow sets**, and more.
- Visit their website: [EU-SPARES Shop - Renault 16 Parts](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/renault/16)

2. **Autodoc**:
- **Autodoc** provides a wide range of spares for the **Renault 16**.
- Explore their offerings: [Autodoc - Renault 16 Parts](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/renault/16)

3. **BuyCarParts.co.uk**:
- Find spare parts for your **Renault 16** on **BuyCarParts.co.uk**.
- Check their catalog: [BuyCarParts.co.uk - Renault 16 Parts](https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/renault-16)

Remember to verify compatibility and quality when selecting parts for your Renault 16.