Renault Wind Gordini
The Renault Wind was one of the most pleasantly surprising cars of the early 2010s. Based on the Twingo II platform, it was a tiny two-seat roadster that offered something genuinely unique in the market: a retractable hardtop that could open or close in just 12 seconds, using a novel mechanism where the rear section of the roof pivoted 180 degrees and tucked into the boot. Unlike conventional folding hardtops that consumed most of the luggage space, the Wind's system was compact enough to preserve a useful 270-liter boot with the roof down.
The Gordini specification was the range-topping version, named after Renault's legendary tuning partner. It featured the 1.6-liter K4M engine producing 133 horsepower — the same naturally aspirated unit found in the Clio RS 197/200 (in different tune). In the Wind's 1,090 kg body, it provided brisk if not explosive performance: 0-100 km/h in around 9.5 seconds and a top speed just over 200 km/h. The six-speed manual gearbox was precise and well-suited to the car's character.
Driving the Wind Gordini was an engaging experience. The short wheelbase (2,368 mm) and compact dimensions gave it go-kart-like agility. The steering was direct and responsive, and the car changed direction with an enthusiasm that belied its budget origins. The torsion beam rear suspension was simple but effective, and the low curb weight meant the available power was always entertaining rather than overwhelming.
The Gordini trim added visual distinction: a characteristic blue paint scheme with white racing stripes, Gordini badging, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a sport-tuned chassis. Inside, blue-accented upholstery and Gordini-branded details set it apart from the standard Wind.
The Wind sold in very small numbers. Renault never expected it to be a volume car — it was a halo model designed to bring attention to the Twingo range and demonstrate that affordable fun was still possible. But it arrived during the aftermath of the financial crisis, and small roadsters were a hard sell. Production ended after just three years.
Today the Wind Gordini is an underappreciated oddity. It offers genuine open-air fun for very little money, with a clever roof mechanism that works better than many systems costing ten times more. For those seeking an affordable, characterful weekend roadster, the Wind is one of the most entertaining sub-$10,000 convertibles available.
The K4M 1.6-liter engine is robust and well-proven across many Renault applications. The roof mechanism is the critical inspection point — operate it multiple times during a test drive and check for any hesitation or unusual noises. The seals around the retractable roof can perish, leading to water leaks. The torsion beam rear suspension bushings can wear. Check for clutch wear — many Winds were used as weekend toys and driven enthusiastically. The Gordini is the most desirable version. Low production means parts specific to the Wind (body panels, roof mechanism components) are becoming scarce — carrying a good relationship with a Renault dealer or specialist is advisable.
The Renault Wind was built at the Revoz factory in Novo Mesto, Slovenia — the same plant that produced the Twingo II and Clio III. Production ran from 2010 to 2013. Total production was approximately 10,000-12,000 units across all variants. The Gordini was the top specification, with a 1.2 TCe (100hp) also available as the entry-level engine.