Compromised Internals

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

The Renault 17 Gordini was a coupe variant of the Renault 12 platform, developed with assistance from the Gordini tuning division. While not a rally heavyweight, it provided Renault with a capable and stylish front-wheel-drive entry for European tarmac rallies during the early 1970s. Its angular design and liftback shape made it stand out visually, while its performance offered just enough pace to threaten podiums when conditions favored finesse over raw power. Though eventually overshadowed by more competitive models, the 17 Gordini played a respectable role in Renault’s rally evolution.

Technical Specs & Innovations

Though not heavily modified compared to rivals, the Renault 17 Gordini benefited from a stable chassis and decent aerodynamics, making it ideal for long, winding asphalt stages.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

1974 Monte Carlo Rally: A respectable finish for Renault in icy tarmac conditions.
French national events: The 17 performed well on domestic roads and regional asphalt rallies.
Group 2 competition: Occasionally outpaced bigger-name teams through reliability and steady handling.

Though it never won a major WRC event, the Renault 17 Gordini contributed to Renault's broader rally development strategy and maintained brand visibility in international competition.

Driving Characteristics

The Renault 17 Gordini drove with classic front-wheel-drive behavior: safe, predictable, and responsive in the wet. It wasn’t the sharpest in terms of power delivery, but it offered impressive grip and directional stability, making it confidence-inspiring for drivers on technical, narrow mountain stages.

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