This 1988 Renault 21 2L Turbo miniature represents one of the most iconic models in the French saloon range of the 1980s. Reproduced with remarkable attention to detail, this model car perfectly captures the understated elegance and discreet sportiness of this model that marked a generation of motorists.
A true collector's item , this faithful reproduction is aimed at French automobile enthusiasts and collectors looking for authentic models representing the golden age of the French automobile industry.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Renault 21 2L Turbo
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1988
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Gray
- Protective case included: Yes
The Renault 21, the benchmark sedan of the 80s
The Renault 21 was launched in 1986 to replace the Renault 18 and stand out against European competition. Designed under the direction of Gaston Juchet, this family sedan stood out for its modern, aerodynamic lines, designed by Robert Opron. The 2L Turbo version, marketed from 1987, represented the top of the range of the series with its 175 horsepower supercharged engine.
This French sedan was characterized by its spacious interior, generous 518-liter trunk, and particularly comprehensive standard equipment for the time. The Turbo version benefited from a reinforced chassis, sports suspension, and a braking system adapted to its remarkable performance for a family car.
Commercially, the Renault 21 enjoyed respectable success with more than 2 million units produced until 1994. It allowed Renault to consolidate its position in the European mid-size sedan segment, particularly in France where it regularly appeared in the top 10 sales.
Renault, innovation at the service of the popular automobile
At the end of the 1980s, Renault was undergoing a period of renaissance after the difficulties of the early part of the decade. Under the leadership of Raymond Lévy and then Louis Schweitzer, the diamond-shaped brand rediscovered its creativity and technological audacity. The 21 Turbo was part of this upmarket strategy, demonstrating that Renault knew how to combine technical innovation and accessibility.
Since its founding in 1899 by Louis Renault, Marcel Renault, and Fernand Renault, the French brand had built a reputation as an innovator. From the first racing cars to the revolutionary 4CV and Dauphine, Renault had always anticipated the needs of its customers. The 1980s marked a turning point with the arrival of more sophisticated models like the Renault 25 and this 21 Turbo.
This period also coincided with the rise of Renault Formula 1 , where the brand's turbocharged engines dominated the sport. This technological expertise naturally carried over to the production models, making the 21 Turbo a symbol of French excellence in turbocharging.
The story of the Renault 21 Turbo
The most memorable story of the Renault 21 Turbo remains without a doubt its use by the French National Gendarmerie. From 1988 onwards, law enforcement agencies adopted this sedan en masse for their rapid interventions, seduced by its performance and reliability. These blue Renault 21 Turbos with their white stripes quickly became a symbol of the French road authority.
The police particularly appreciated the turbo engine's flexibility, which made it easy to catch highway violators. With its top speed of 210 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, the 21 Turbo easily rivaled the sports cars of the time. This reputation as a "motorway chaser" greatly contributed to forging the model's legend.
A delightful anecdote tells of a 1989 speed camera check on the A6 when a Gendarmerie Renault 21 Turbo was clocked at 195 km/h while chasing an offender. The incident made headlines in the automotive press, perfectly illustrating the capabilities of this deceptively sensible family sedan.
Beyond its professional use, the 21 Turbo also left its mark on French popular culture. It appeared in numerous police films of the 1990s and remains etched in the collective memory as the car of the "cops" of that era. This cultural dimension partly explains the current enthusiasm of collectors for this emblematic model of the 1980s .
Complete your collection of French model cars
This miniature Renault 21 Turbo occupies a special place in the world of French car reproductions. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to French model cars from the 80s, alongside other iconic models such as the Peugeot 405 or the Citroën BX .
For fans of miniature sedans , this model is a must-have that sits harmoniously alongside other reproductions of sporty family vehicles. Collectors specializing in police and gendarmerie vehicles will also find a reference model representative of a bygone era.
This miniature is aimed at both experienced collectors and French car enthusiasts wishing to relive the atmosphere of the retro years 1980-1999 . Its 1/43rd scale facilitates its integration into most existing collections, while its careful finish makes it a model of choice for exhibition or daily contemplation.
