Renault 30 Overview: Generations, Specs and Which Version to Buy
Overview of the Renault 30 five-door hatchback (1975–1986): its single generation, the 86–143 hp power range, and which of the nine modifications makes the most sense to buy.
The Renault 30 is a five-door hatchback produced from 1975 to 1986, with engine outputs spanning 86 to 143 hp across nine modifications. All versions drive the front wheels and were offered with either a manual or an automatic gearbox. It suits classic-car enthusiasts who want a large 1970s French hatchback with a relatively powerful engine for its era and a simple single-generation lineup that is easy to research.
Renault 30 generations
1 generation (1975–1986)
The first and only generation of the Renault 30 was built from 1975 to 1986 exclusively as a five-door hatchback. Power outputs range from 86 hp in the base versions to 143 hp at the top of the lineup, and the generation counts nine modifications in total. Every Renault 30 of this generation is front-wheel drive, with both manual and automatic transmissions available depending on the version. The notable versions share the same 2664 cc engine: the Renault 30 2.7 AT (128 hp), the widespread choice of the range, and the Renault 30 2.7 AT (143 hp), the most powerful modification offered.
Which Renault 30 to buy
- 2.7 AT (128 hp) (1 generation): the mass-market version of the lineup, its 2664 cc engine and 128 hp with an automatic gearbox make it the easiest Renault 30 to find on the used market.
- 2.7 AT (143 hp) (1 generation): the strongest version in the range at 143 hp, a 15 hp advantage over the 128 hp variant from the same 2664 cc engine and automatic gearbox.
Because every Renault 30 belongs to one generation built between 1975 and 1986, there are no cross-generation differences to weigh when buying used: the choice comes down to engine output and gearbox type. Even the newest cars are decades old, so the individual car's condition matters far more than the specific model year within the 1975–1986 run.
Which Renault 30 to avoid
No version of the Renault 30 is strictly dominated on the available numbers: the 128 hp and 143 hp automatics differ only in output, and the lower-powered versions from the 86–143 hp range trade power for smaller engines rather than losing outright on identical hardware. Judge each of the nine modifications on its own condition rather than ruling any out by specification.