Renault R16 TX
The Renault 16 is one of the most influential cars in automotive history, yet it's largely forgotten today. When it debuted in 1965, it created an entirely new category: the compact family hatchback with a sloping rear roofline and lift-up rear door. Before the R16, family cars were sedans or wagons. After the R16, the hatchback became the dominant European family car format — a status it retains today.
The R16 was designed by Gaston Juchet (engineering) and styled by Philippe Charbonneaux. The asymmetric design was unusual — the right rear door was longer than the left to ease rear passenger entry. The rear hatch opened to reveal an enormous cargo area with a completely flat floor when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats themselves could be adjusted fore-and-aft independently, a feature that wouldn't become common for decades.
The front-wheel-drive layout, sophisticated torsion-bar suspension on all four corners, and a longitudinal engine mounting gave the R16 excellent ride quality and interior space efficiency. The TX variant, introduced in 1973, featured a more powerful 1.6-liter engine, upgraded interior trim, four headlights, and improved equipment.
The R16 won European Car of the Year in 1966 — a huge achievement — and remained in production for 15 years with over 1.8 million built. It influenced virtually every compact hatchback that followed, from the VW Golf to the Honda Civic. The R16 proved that practical family transportation could be sophisticated, efficient, and genuinely well-engineered.
Today, the R16 is appreciated by enthusiasts who recognize its historical importance. Clean examples, especially TX models with the larger engine and upgraded trim, are increasingly collectible as the hatchback format's true originator.
The R16 is undervalued compared to its historical significance. Rust is the primary concern — check floor pans, sills, and rear suspension pickup points. The torsion-bar suspension is durable but bushings wear. The 1.6L engine is robust and simple to maintain. The TX is the most desirable variant with better performance and equipment. US-spec cars exist but are extremely rare. Parts availability is reasonable through French specialists. The R16's influence on automotive design makes it a significant historical artifact. Values are rising as collectors recognize the car that invented the family hatchback.
Total production: 1,846,000 (1965-1980). Major variants: R16 (1470cc, base), R16 TS/TL (1565cc, upgraded trim), R16 TX (1565cc, top specification, four headlights). US sales from 1968-1972 with federal safety/emissions equipment. The R16 introduced the compact hatchback format that became dominant in Europe. Won European Car of the Year 1966. Production lasted 15 years across multiple European plants.