Renault

The Renault 14 was introduced in January 1976, with production commencing in June of the same year. Developed to compete in the expanding small family hatchback segment popularised by the Volkswagen Golf, the Renault 14 featured front-wheel drive and a highly space-efficient layout. Interior room was one of its principal selling points, with a versatile rear seat that could be folded or removed entirely, enhancing its practicality. In 1979, in response to a slower-than-expected market reception, Renault broadened the range with more upmarket versions. The 14 GTL adopted styling elements inspired by the recently launched Renault 18, while the sportier 14 TS gained a twin-choke carburettor that increased output from 57 to 70 hp. The TS also featured halogen headlamps and front electric windows - an unusual and advanced feature for this class in the French market at the time. Despite its thoughtful design, sales were undermined by an unfortunate advertising campaign that compared the car’s shape to that of a pear, overshadowing its genuine strengths in packaging and comfort. Production came to an end in 1983, by which time just under one million units had been built during a seven-year production run.