Renault R5 Turbo 2 Type 8221 Returns to BaT Auction

One of 200 Renault R5 Turbo 2 Type 8221 homologation models returns to Bring a Trailer after a reserve-not-met result in 2025. Review its specs, history, and auction debate.

A rare 1985 Renault R5 Turbo 2 Type 8221 has appeared on Bring a Trailer, representing one of just 200 street-spec homologation examples built to support the development of the R5 Maxi Turbo for Group B-era competition. The seller states this particular car is the 27th of the limited-production run, and the Type 8221 specification is highlighted by an aluminum roof and an enlarged 1.4-liter engine configuration.

Finished in red with contrasting Turbo 2 graphics, the mid-engined hatchback carries all the visual drama that made the R5 Turbo legendary: boxed fender flares, a vented hood, a roof spoiler, and prominent quarter-panel intakes. It rides on three-piece 15-inch Gotti wheels, backed by four-wheel disc brakes with vented rotors. Recent work performed in April 2025 included the installation of Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires and replacement of the rear axle seals.

Inside, the car features Recaro bucket seats trimmed in black Alcantara, a MOMO steering wheel, and Jaeger instrumentation. While the listing indicates approximately 28,000 kilometers, the auction’s comment section has raised questions regarding the instrument markings and how the mileage should be interpreted, making clarification a key point of interest as bidding continues.

Behind the cabin sits a turbocharged and intercooled 1,437cc inline-four equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle, and the listing specifies a limited-slip differential — another detail that has drawn attention from bidders, with several requesting confirmation of its presence.

This Renault has already been through Bring a Trailer once before, having previously been listed in April 2025, when bidding reached $90,555 without meeting reserve. Now returning to the platform, the car is again drawing strong interest, with enthusiasts closely examining its originality, completeness, and documentation.

With the continued demand for true Group B-era homologation specials and the rarity of the Type 8221 series, the current auction could once again reach notable numbers. Much of the final outcome, however, appears likely to hinge on how convincingly the seller addresses the ongoing questions surrounding mileage, equipment, and technical details that collectors consider crucial.