Renault 8 Gordini (1962-73)
Production Total: The Renault 8 Gordini had a total production run of **11,607 units** from 1962 to 1973 - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/renault/8/).
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Price New: The Renault 8 Gordini was introduced in the UK in 1962, and its price at that time was around **£1,100**.
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Rivals: In 1962, the Renault 8 Gordini faced competition from several notable cars in the UK market. Here are the approximate new prices of its main rivals:
- **Mini Cooper**: Around £679.
- **Ford Cortina**: Approximately £639.
- **Morris Minor 1000**: Around £550.
- **Hillman Imp**: Approximately £508.
These prices reflect the competitive landscape of small, sporty cars during that era. Each of these models had its own unique appeal, making the choice quite interesting for buyers at the time.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are **17 Renault 8 Gordini** cars recorded in the UK. These classic cars have become quite rare and are cherished by enthusiasts and collectors.
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The **Renault 8 Gordini**, produced from **1962 to 1973**, was a lively and characterful rear-engined saloon. However, it had its share of issues:
1. **Corrosion**: Like many cars of that era, the R8 suffered from rust problems.
2. **Tail-Happy Handling**: In wet conditions, the rear-wheel-drive setup could make it a bit lively.
3. **Mechanical Refinement**: While the engine was smooth, other components sometimes lacked refinement.
Despite these quirks, the R8 Gordini remains a legend in motor racing history!
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Generations
The **Renault 8 Gordini** had **two generations**. The first attempt, unveiled in **1964**, featured a tuned 1.1-liter engine with **89 hp**—almost twice the power of the standard R8 Major. However, it was the **1966 model** that truly embodied the Gordini spirit. With a redesigned race-car chassis, four headlights, and a 1.25-liter engine producing **100 hp** for the street version (and **115 hp** for the rally version), it became a legend on both road and track.
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Body Styles/Variants/Engines
The **Renault 8 Gordini**, produced from **1964 to 1973**, had a distinctive angular design and offered a spirited driving experience. Here are the key details:
- **Body Style**: It was a **4-door saloon (sedan)** with **4/5 seats**.
- **Engine**: Powered by a naturally aspirated **1.1-liter engine**, producing **95 bhp** at 6500 rpm.
- **Transmission**: Equipped with a **4-speed manual gearbox**.
- **Performance**: Capable of reaching a top speed of **171 km/h (106 mph)**.
- **Gordini Version**: Introduced in **1964**, the Gordini featured enhanced performance, improved braking, and a sportier engine.
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Spares
If you're looking for **spare parts** for your **Renault 8 Gordini** in the **United Kingdom** or **Ireland**, here are some options:
1. **Autopartspro.co.uk**: They offer **original car spares** for the Renault 8, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.
2. **Autodoc**: Autodoc provides a wide assortment of **first-class and inexpensive parts** for the Renault 8. Their online store offers information support and advice in multiple languages.
3. **Oreca-Store**: While primarily focused on motorsports spare parts, they also have **bodywork parts** for the restoration of the R8 Gordini.
Feel free to explore these options and find the parts you need for your classic Renault 8 Gordini!