: Renault Clio 1.2, 1988 Range Rover, BMW 316 (E21), Ford Focus, VW Golf Mk VI and Mini Cooper as company cars
Great French roads and a great French car!
"Once I was able to buy my first performance car, it took me a whole year to choose one! I was choosing between MX-5, MR2, Z3 Coupe, Alfa Romeo GT and GTV, 306 GTI, 325ti and Mini Cooper S to name a few... In the end I thought about a Clio and realised the 182 was well in my budget. Of course it's not very exotic compared to the others but I chose it because it's supposed to be mega fun, practical, reliable and fairly cheap to run.
What I wish I'd known:
"Everybody knows about the cambelts, but there are many things that also need attention like engine mounts, dampers and suspension bushes. All headlights need restoration at some point but after wasting two different kits on them, I swapped them for new units. The exhaust is also prone to rust which makes a rattling noise from underneath."
Would you fancy trying to keep up?
"Mine is a 'full fat' car, with the Cup chassis added to a standard 182, and looks great for a hot hatch. I love the compactness of it and the fact that you sit high is actually a good thing on open roads. The engine feels good, although nothing spectacular happens below 5,000rpm.
"But the best bit is by far the chassis, which still demands respect as it's tuned to light understeer but feels very neutral the faster you go. On the twisty bits it's absolutely flying from apex to apex with no hesitation whatsoever."
Things I hate:
"The noise is pretty awful, despite the promise of dual tailpipes. The controls are quite heavy and can become tiring in traffic jams. And since it's a Renault you get plenty of squeaking noises."
Turinis look a worthwhile upgrade
"I wanted the car to be in top condition, which means I changed a lot of parts (engine mounts, front dampers and various front axle parts, discs and front wheel bearings). I also fitted a sports cat, silver Turinis and upgraded pads. So in the end it wasn't cheap, but then the car looks good and drives like it was meant to - it's not bad for a 10 year old car! Insurance is OK, and fuel economy is surprisingly good at 35 mpg."
Where I've been:
"Driven all the twisty roads in Provence and Corsica. And of course to Mont Ventoux!"
What next?
"I've considered selling it many times but it's a tough call. It's difficult to beat as far as fun and value for money is concerned.
"But the appeal of nice interior, beautiful noise and rear wheel drive means a BMW 325ti will be joining the Clio soon."