Renault 17 restomod: 1970s classic gets 21st century twist

While the French diamond is no stranger to concept car collaborations, its latest project with Ora Ïto is one of the most intriguing yet. Is this carbon-bodied coupe a sign of things to come? 

Renault’s original 17 might not be as instantly recognisable today as classics like the R5, but when it debuted back in 1972 it was memorable for all the right reasons. As the brand’s first-ever front-wheel drive coupe, the R17 was a stylish alternative to the likes of Ford’s Capri and Vauxhall’s Firenza, and featured a particularly quirky interior — with winged seats and hooded gauges. 

The performance, on the other hand, was nothing to write home about. Base cars took nearly 14 seconds to hit 60 mph and struggled to keep pace with their contemporary classmates. High-performance Gordini models got a little more pep (105 bhp) though, even in 1976, that wouldn’t win a game of Top Trumps. But what if there was a way to keep that charming ‘70s styling and marry it to modern internals? 

Design legend, Ora Ïto, has the answer. Like the Delorean EV conversion we recently featured, his one-off creation makes no bones about binning the 17’s fusty ICE powertrain for something far zingier: a full EV setup.

Unlike the DMC, Ïto’s concept is much more than a simple engine conversion. Instead, this entirely modern interpretation of the classic machine captures the essence of the original — boxy styling and ‘70s brownness, included — whilst putting its own spin on things.  

The headlights, for example, differ from the original’s signature rounded quad items, but somehow look just right. Equally, the interior is clad with a mix of brown and beige fine merino wool — adding a little flair in a wonderfully period correct sort of way.  

Speaking about his creative process, Ïto explains: “My aim was to add stye and flow, but without altering the character of R17. I wanted to add my own design codes, accentuating some of the characteristics with a futuristic touch to give them a more timeless look.”

The new powertrain is more radical. A 270 bhp electric motor supplies the rear wheels which, when allied to the 1400 kg all-carbon construction, should offer startling acceleration. The handling will be pretty sharp, too. Modern Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber sits at each corner, and there’s a wider track to further enhance roadholding. No details have been released regarding the electric range, but the meagre kerb weight should pay dividends on that front. 

Now for the bad news: you can’t buy one… However, while this is just a one-off design study, perhaps Renault’s also dropping hints at a future coupe revival. Afterall, it’s been nearly a decade since they last sold one in the UK, and several more since they had one which was a commercial success.  

With both Honda and Toyota making moves to reignite the coupe segment, we’ve got our fingers crossed that Renault has similar plans for the 17.  

Are you a fan of throwback styling, or would you rather car makers tried something more original?

Hero image credit: Renault