Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup

Renault Twingo RS Gordini 133 Cup

The Renault Twingo RS Gordini is one of the most charming and entertaining small hot hatches of the early 2010s. Taking the already fun Twingo RS and adding the legendary Gordini livery along with Cup chassis enhancements, Renault created a tiny firecracker of a car that punched well above its weight in terms of driving enjoyment.

The Twingo RS used the Renault Sport D4F 1,598cc naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 133 horsepower at 6,750 rpm. Like the Clio RS, this was a high-revving, characterful engine that demanded to be used enthusiastically. The power came high in the rev range, with peak torque of 160 Nm arriving at 4,400 rpm, encouraging the driver to keep the engine spinning freely.

The Gordini version added the iconic blue-and-white livery that commemorated Amedee Gordini's association with Renault. The exterior featured a distinctive Gordini blue paint with white racing stripes, while the interior received blue-and-white trim, Recaro sports seats, and Gordini badging throughout. The visual effect was delightful and unmistakable.

The Cup chassis option added stiffer springs and dampers, along with revised anti-roll bars. This made the already agile Twingo RS even sharper, though at the expense of some ride comfort. On smooth roads, the Cup chassis was a revelation, providing go-kart-like responses and genuine cornering precision. On rough surfaces, it could be uncomfortable, but the trade-off was worthwhile for enthusiastic drivers.

At just 1,050 kilograms, the Twingo RS Gordini was light enough that its 133 horsepower felt more than adequate. The power-to-weight ratio of 127 horsepower per ton was competitive with many larger hot hatchbacks, and the car's compact dimensions made it feel faster than its numbers suggested. On tight, twisting roads, the Twingo RS could embarrass far more powerful machinery.

The five-speed manual gearbox had a positive, mechanical shift feel that perfectly complemented the engine's rev-happy character. The steering was quick and communicative, and the front-wheel-drive layout provided reliable traction with just enough torque steer to remind you that the car was working hard.

The Twingo RS Cup racing series provided an accessible entry point to motorsport, with identical cars competing on circuits across France and the UK. This racing pedigree added credibility to the road car and established a community of passionate owners.

Today, the Twingo RS Gordini represents one of the most affordable ways to experience the Renault Sport driving philosophy. Values remain modest but are beginning to rise as the hot hatch collecting market recognizes these tiny, characterful cars as among the last of the naturally aspirated, lightweight breed.