How good is a Clio 197???

[L9wul]

Hi, I've been looking at getting another fun, weekend car and am really keen on the looks and the reviews of the 197, albeit I have yet to drive one. I have recently had a few interesting cars, m3's, imprezas, and notably a megane R26. Now having a couple of kids the family cars have taken budget priority but me and my brother already share a boxster S (986) and are looking to add a hot hatch.
I really liked the R26, especially on track, and this is where I think the desire for a 197 is coming from, plus they seem almost iresistable value. We will also be planning to track the hot hatch and it will hopefully get used fairly regularly, more so than the boxster as this only comes out on nice days.
Has anyone opinions/experience of 197's? Is a Clio 200 that much better than a 197 to warrant the extra cost? Any other thoughts/experiences on hot hatches?
Just to add, the budget is penned in at between £4 and £5k but could be extended if a car warrants, and also I do intend to test drive prior to purchase of any particular model but just after some peoples thoughts etc.

Cheers

[L9wul]

I have yes, they seem mixed and as you mention most compare it to a 200. I am just a little concerned as to whether the extra few k is worth spending on a 200 for what will essentially be used as a weekend blast car and the occasional tracker. There seemed to be enough in the reviews to suggest that the 197 will be more than enough for that and at prices less than £5k really appeals from that angle, just interested in other phers thoughts really...

Thanks for the reply, all advice is good in my opinion......