A few years ago, I stumbled across a very complete Renault Fuego Turbo in a long-forgotten salvage yard. It’s still there today, behind a 1980s Camry and alongside a fence that houses a dog run, complete with requisite junkyard dogs. When I first saw it, I knew I had found something rare; I’d later find out it was for all the wrong reasons. The seller of this 1983 Fuego Turbo seems to have his sights set on bigger projects, but I think he may be want to educate himself on why these Franco-American hybrids are considered a “lost car” by Hemmings. Find it here on Boston’s craigslist with an asking price of $1,600 OBO.

On the outside, this car had a lot going for it. It was affordable, offered great fuel economy and was easy on the eyes. If it mattered to you, the added European flair gave consumers something different to shop for at their local AMC dealership. Thickly bolstered sport seats, available turbocharged engines and a manual transmission at least gave the appearance of serious performance even though the Fuego was underwhelming in the acceleration and road-holding categories. The one I visited in the junkyard had to be the prettiest thing in the place despite being covered in pine needles and undergrowth, but that’s where the superlatives tend to stop.

The car did not fare well in America. Despite being a relative success in Europe, Americans have never been fans of automobiles with hatchback-style designs. In addition, like so many other cars sold both here and in Europe in the 80s, the ugly U.S. bumpers did nothing for consumers’ attraction to the oddball car. Factor in leaking headgaskets, sketchy electronics and even possible steering wheel failure and it’s not hard to see why the Fuego didn’t become a roaring success. And have you watched the television ads? With all of those promises of performance, the Turbo’s lackluster 0-60 times were likely a disappointment.

This particular Fuego Turbo has not been driven in many years. One can only guess how many of the original drawbacks to the car have only been magnified by years of inactivity. The seller is seeking Porsche 928 projects in trade, which is a far better choice for a project car, but not exactly a fair trade for the P-car owner. While Hemmings may consider this a lost car, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a desirable one. But stranger things have happened, when ugly ducklings becoming favorite sons. What do you think – will the Fuego ever become an attractive buy as a hobby car? Or will it forever be a forgettable experiment between Renault and AMC?