Re: [Amc-list] Who knows Renaults? GTA? Ragtop!

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

I don't exactly "know" Renaults, but am familiar with them. I passed on a GTA with at least four bent valves (no compression in any cylinder due to broken timing belt). Parts aren't hard to find -- pretty much standard Renault stuff. You may have to order on-line from Canada or Europe though. Only a few parts available from the local stores, and I bet they have to order from the warehouse -- anything other than spark plugs, wires, and belts anyway. Would be a FUN daily driver! The only thing that would beat it on the twisty's when it came out was a Corvette -- the GTA pulled 0.89g on a skid pad with the stock Michelin Sport XGT 195/50VR15 tires on 15x6 wheels. 0-60 time is 13.9 seconds. Early articles stated 0.93g and 9.9 0-60, but were apparently exaggerated. 0.89 and 13.9 comes from AMC/Renault magazine ads. Maybe test versions did go a bit faster than the production versions. 

The engine is basically the same as the 1.7L -- all but the block, crank, and rods interchange IIRC. The 2.0L is a stroked 1.7L with an 11mm taller block. Might use a slightly longer timing belt. Both are DOHC 16 valve, and most importantly share the same head. HP for the 2.0L is only 95 @ 5250 rpm, 114 lb/ft of torque @ a relatively low 2750 rpm thanks to the longer stroke. 

----------------
Date: Sat, 16 Aug 2008 03:31:24 +0000
From: Wrambler242@xxxxxxxxxxx
	
I stumbled on this and it is very close to me, priced very cheap and even has less than 100K on it.
The GTA was the one car I remember running like it should. It was not a race car but the 2.0L makes it run like they all should have.
   Oh, and it covers the ragtop urge I have had for years...
Stickshift, good if my shoulder likes this particular car. Bad if it doesn't. I've found some cars don't bother me much, depends on shift effort and placement.

   So, what is the likelyhood of finding parts for this puppy should the timing belt be gone and th evalves mangled or the rear suspension bushings be shot etc;

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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