There is very little to worry about with the
Clio Renaultsport
’s bodywork beyond signs of damage or abuse. Look for any holes in the lower front bumper where a previous owner may have removed a splitter and check the drain holes in the scuttle are clean and clear. If they become blocked they can drown the wiper motor. The wiper mechanism can also fail, which means a new mechanism for around £140.
200 brought in a heavy-handed facelift
Headlight bulbs are no more prone to failure than in any other car, but replacing them in this generation of Clio can mean removing the front bumper, so it’s worth making sure they work properly. Also be sure both keyless ignition cards work properly as a replacement is £180 from Renault. Cup cars do without the ignition card and use a standard key to reduce weight.
A rattle from the rear of the Clio is most likely to be a misaligned boot latch, which lets the tailgate jiggle as the car is driven. It’s simple to have this repositioned to stop the rattling.
Otherwise, the only decision to make with the Clio Renaultsport 197 and 200 is about colour. Alien Green and Glacier White are the most sought-after colours, so choosing a car in another shade could save you a small amount, but it’s better to buy on condition rather than a pre-determined specification. A high mileage RS Clio 197 or 200 that has been well looked after is a much better bet than a low mileage car that has been neglected.
PHer’s view:
“Nothing fell off or broke in the time I owned the car, but another year or so in my hands and I think the track days would begin to take their toll.”
Arthur Veldhoen