Renault 5 Turbo

vs

Dodge Omni GLH-S

France vs USA — 1980 vs 1984

Renault 5 Turbo (1980)
Dodge Omni GLH-S (1984)
Specifications
5 Turbo Turbo 2Omni GLH-S Shelby
Horsepower160 hp175 hp
Torque155 lb-ft175 lb-ft
Engine Size1,397 cc2,213 cc
0-60 mph6.4 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed124 mph130 mph
¼ Mile14.6 sec14.7 sec
Weight2,139 lbs2,350 lbs
Wheelbase2,430 mm2,464 mm
Length3,665 mm4,216 mm
Units Produced4,987500
Original MSRP$10,995
Value (Excellent)$250,000$55,000
Collectibility9/107/10
Rarity8/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 offers quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1984 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When France engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 and 1984 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 producing 160 hp and the 1984 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby delivering 175 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault 5 Turbo uses a Inline-4 Turbo Cléon-Fonte displacing 1,397 cc, while the Dodge Omni GLH-S relies on a I4 SOHC Turbocharged with 2,213 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Renault 5 Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 211 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 500 units built, the 1984 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby is considerably scarcer than the Renault 5 Turbo's 4,987 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 commands a significant premium over the 1984 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Renault 5 Turbo Turbo 2 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.