2005 Renault Clio 182 Cup

Highlights

• Stunning example of the iconic hot hatch

• Genuine 46k miles from new

• Comprehensive service history

• Both Cup Pack options

• Genuine, unmodified and unmolested 

Overview

This isn’t just any hot hatch. And no, that’s not because it shares shelf space with Colin the Caterpillar and Percy Pig. Nope, the RenaultSport Clio 182 Cup has an even better pedigree than one of Britain’s favourite upper-middle-class supermarket and petrol station convenience stores, for it formed the basis of Pistonheads’ Hot Hatch of the Century – an achievement that surely won’t ever be surpassed.

Well, we say ‘won’t ever’ – there’s a chance there’ll be a successor in the 22nd century, but it’s unlikely that many of us will be around to see it, so we may as well put what we have on a pedestal and worship it in the way it deserves to be worshipped. 

The car in question was the RenaultSport Clio 182 Trophy, but the Cup was the model from which it was derived and is ever so slightly less hardcore – it doesn’t have the Sachs adjustable dampers or lowered Trendline seats of the ultimate pared-back 182, but if you’re not going to get hung-up on such things then it’s still a mighty machine, with most of the superfluous bits of a plusher model removed. 

A full-fat Clio 182, this example boasts both ‘Cup Pack’ options, namely a front and rear splitter and spoiler, as well as lowered suspension, wider track and anthracite wheels. Indeed, it’s only the adjustable shocks and Capsicum Red paint away from being a Trophy, really.

Inside, there are half-leather bucket seats and options including climate control, cruise control and traction control, while Anthracite alloy wheels and bi-Xenon headlights complete the visual package – it’s not as bare and brutal as some Clio Cups, but unless you’re a completely hardcore track monkey, the convenience features are there to enjoy.

A superb example, it comes from long-term ownership, and has always been stored in a heated garage. It is in exceptional condition inside and out, with just two previous owners, has a chunky history file and is an absolute blast to drive, as 182s always were. 

These are one of our big tips for investors – the seminal RenaultSport Clio in all its guises is only going one way in terms of value, so nab one now while you still can. But do us (and yourself) a favour. Don’t just tuck it in the garage, for it deserves so much better.

History and documentation

• First registered on October 31st 2005

• UK V5C

• MOT October 25th  2026 – no advisories

• Two keys

• Original handbook pack

• Service book stamped as follows: 2007 @ 10,750 miles (main dealer), 2010 @ 30,139 miles (independent), 2015 @ 40,291 miles (specialist), 2019 @ 41,581 miles (specialist)

• Some additional invoices for parts and maintenance

• London ULEZ and Clean Air Zone compliant

Interior

• Half-leather; half-Alcantara seats

• Upholstery in great condition throughout

• Climate control

• Renaultsport dials, drilled aluminium pedals and a chunky leather-rimmed steering wheel 

• Rear bench seat in excellent order

• Pioneer Bluetooth stereo with original factory Cabasse radio included

• RenaultSport steering wheel

• RenaultSport kickplates

• Alcantara door cards

Exterior

• Original Black Gold paint (with gold flecks that are highlighted in sunlight) in good overall order

• Two small scuffs on front bumper

• One small wheelarch scuff 

• Original 16-inch Anthracite alloy wheels, presented in excellent order 

• Matching Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tyres all-round

• Twin stainless-steel exhaust tips

• Authentic Renault-ELF window stickers

• Factory option bi-Xenon headlights

 Mechanical

• 2.0-litre F4R normally aspirated petrol engine

• 182PS/180bhp

• Five speed manual gear box

• 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds/140mph top speed

• Reported by the vendor to be huge fun to drive and in great working order, with no known or apparent faults

Summary

Here’s a rare opportunity to buy one of the best hot hatchbacks ever created, with a genuine low mileage and in completely unmodified, unspoilt condition. It’s a car from a generation of hot hatches whose like we’ll probably never see again – a true golden era for the breed, of which the Clio was the star attraction. 

 This is a hugely appealing proposition, and if a RenaultSport Clio appeals to you (and if not, why not?), we highly recommend you don’t dither or drag your heels – prices are only going one way, so now’s the time to buy before they reach heights that ordinary folk just cannot reach.  

 To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Meopham, Kent.