The first things to check with any possible Renaultsport Megane 2 purchase are the electrics. Renault was making strides in improving its cars at this point, but glitches are more common in the Megane than its contemporary rivals. This means making sure the keyless ignition works, the electric windows wind up and down smoothly, and the headlights work when asked. Also check all of the dash lights go out when the engine is started.
Standard interior dull, R26.R's rather more wild
The plastics on the dash and doors wear well but scratch easily, while the seats cope well with use. However, check the bolster on the right-hand side of the driver's seat for wear from owners slumping into the seat. Leather upholstery tends to wear better than the standard fabric. The R26.R's carbon fibre Sabelt-made seats are comfortable but make sure you can cope with the six-point harness for everyday use if the original owner didn't specify the optional reinstatement of the three-point belts. The F1 Team Special Edition has Recaro front sports seats as standard and a numbered plaque to identify it.
Renault used an odd aircraft throttle-style handbrake for this generation of Megane, which doesn't fall as readily to hand as you might expect. Check it works as it should and you're happy with its positioning. The steering wheel adjusts for height and reach, while all RS Meganes except the R26.R have six airbags, air conditioning and CD stereo.
PHer's view:
"It was an everyday car for me as well as a track car. Of course, there was no radio as standard, however wiring for a head unit and speakers were present, so they are easy to install. There are no inertia reel belts as standard, just six point Sabelt harnesses, but the long doors and windows made them easy to manage for checking blind spots and pulling out of junctions."
Arun Dhanapala
