clio 172 exclusive

[swansea v6]

Due to moving house and my daily commute now being a 1 minute walk I decided to sell the x-type and buy a 'fun' car. So a few weeks ago I picked up a bargain 172 exclusive, number 155. I have already joined clipsort but am looking for any hints and tips regarding making it a bit more track friendly while still retaining a half decent drive on our crap roads. Cambelt and dephaser has just been done, any recommendations for suspension work etc??? Oh and how the bloody hell do you get halfway comfortable on the leather seats??

[michaelw3628]

Firstly if you're driving on track, sell the exclusive and buy one with normal seats as a minimum, maybe even a cup if you're more serious about track. If wanting to remain more suited for the road, then a simple suspension refresh of bushes etc and maybe lowered springs but they are more than a capable out the box.

[swansea v6]

Are the standard seats a lot more comfortable? I do like the leather but just can not get a comfortable driving position?

[michaelw3628]

I wouldn't say more comfortable, just less likely to slide around. I believe they use the same seat so contours a the same. The regular 172/182 interior is half leather and Alcantara but the cup is standard poverty spec cloth.

[xr287]

Polybushing it makes it feel much more direct, I couldn't be sure if it was a placebo but my dad also has a 182 and there definitely is an improvement with it done. Also check the engine mounts, it's common for them to wear out and refreshing them can make it feel tighter as well.