It is not often that you see these in traffic anymore.
It is considered the forerunner of modern family cars. In the 60s, it was not common to have 5 doors - including a large tailgate, hatchback shape, flexible seating solutions, front-wheel drive and efficient use of interior space.
I came across a great Renault 16 the other day
The model celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. It was launched in 1965 as a car of the future, quite different from the Fords and Opels of the time, so to speak. A little too quirky for some, but stylish for others. The typical owner was a family man, a white-collar worker between 30-50 and above average interested in driving. One could sense a gentleman with a well-trimmed mustache and driving gloves.
Torsion springs like 4L
Fortunately, the Renault 16 was better motorized than the Renault 4. The standard model with 1,6 liters had 67 HP. The TS had 83 HP, and the later TX got as much as 93 HP and a 5-speed gearbox. Torsion springs on all wheels were not only comfortable, but also space-saving. The entire suspension lies horizontally under the cabin almost without stealing interior space.
If you were to test drive the car today, you would notice the steering gear and that it is perhaps somewhat heavier on the steering wheel than today's cars - a typical disadvantage of all front-wheel drive cars, as much of the engine and gearbox are often located in front of the front axle. Renault had nevertheless done a lot to remedy this. The compact aluminum engine was pulled far into the cabin, and the gearbox faced forwards.
It was considered a large family car for its time. How big was it really? The answer is: 1 centimeter shorter than today's Golf.
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