Clio 172 PH1 vs PH2
Discussion
Hi all, hope we're all enjoying our Sundays, I'm thinking about small, fun cars with four seats for around £1500. The 172 is a real contender in this category. But I much prefer the PH1 looks. But what are the significant differences between it and the PH2?
Others I'm considering are Ignis Sport, Fiesta Zetec-S. Any other recommendations? And will appreciate any feedback on these cars. It would be used for leisure only, no commuting, so it needs to be nippy and fun. Not too bothered by noise and comfort
Thanks!
Others I'm considering are Ignis Sport, Fiesta Zetec-S. Any other recommendations? And will appreciate any feedback on these cars. It would be used for leisure only, no commuting, so it needs to be nippy and fun. Not too bothered by noise and comfort
Thanks!
Both PH1 and PH2 cup didn't have ABS, only standard 172 and the 182 did.
Differences between the 1 and 2 (from memory): Cable throttle in the Ph1 was changed to wired throttle, exterior colours etc. Interiors were also different.
Imo I'd go for a Ph1 if you can find one that isn't rusty in budget, that or a Ph2 Cup.
Differences between the 1 and 2 (from memory): Cable throttle in the Ph1 was changed to wired throttle, exterior colours etc. Interiors were also different.
Imo I'd go for a Ph1 if you can find one that isn't rusty in budget, that or a Ph2 Cup.
Pretty sure the Ph1 has abs, I only say this as I had a problem on track and took the fuse out that controls it. After that I was locking up when braking hard.
Other things is it has a throttle cable as opposed to fly by wire in the Ph2.
Also the interior of the Ph1 isn't as nice with a blue 'look' to it, and the steering wheel falls apart as it was an alcantara style whereas the Ph2's melted being leather.
This is all from memory if a few years ago, so not absolutely 100% on all these points. Cliosport.net is the place to go for all the answers.
What I can say is it was a great little fun car, cheap as chips to buy and modify if you want it to perform better on track, 15'' wheels on the Ph1 mean tyres cost pennies too
Other things is it has a throttle cable as opposed to fly by wire in the Ph2.
Also the interior of the Ph1 isn't as nice with a blue 'look' to it, and the steering wheel falls apart as it was an alcantara style whereas the Ph2's melted being leather.
This is all from memory if a few years ago, so not absolutely 100% on all these points. Cliosport.net is the place to go for all the answers.
What I can say is it was a great little fun car, cheap as chips to buy and modify if you want it to perform better on track, 15'' wheels on the Ph1 mean tyres cost pennies too
Nothing to contribute with regards to the PH1 vs PH2 argument but the Zetec-S is in no way a competitor for the Clio, for a comparison you need to look at the ST and unless you're prepared to buy a modified example (Of which there are lots), isn't as good, you'd also need to put another 3k on top of your budget so don't go looking at Ford's
Edited by ezi on Sunday 7th September 22:33
I've had pretty good experience of both, the first car I ever 'drove' was a ph2 172 and I owned a ph1 for 2.5 years, all I'll say is that the ph2 is quieter and more civilised in both driving and living with. You probably won't notice much of a difference really though as either will be used.
The biggest thing about having either is to make sure the suspension is tip top and, if you can afford it, original. Tyre choice is imperitive and Michelins do seem to work best. Cambelt and servicing is also important and be prepared if you are as neurotic as I am to keep thinking that something is wrong and then spend a spirited drive realising that you're out of sorts not the car.
They are good cars and the engines and basic mechanics are very robust, replace with gen parts as you go and you'll be alright.
The biggest thing about having either is to make sure the suspension is tip top and, if you can afford it, original. Tyre choice is imperitive and Michelins do seem to work best. Cambelt and servicing is also important and be prepared if you are as neurotic as I am to keep thinking that something is wrong and then spend a spirited drive realising that you're out of sorts not the car.
They are good cars and the engines and basic mechanics are very robust, replace with gen parts as you go and you'll be alright.
The other cars you listed would be no match compared to a 172/182. I've had mine for almost a year and I love it. Cliche, but they really do handle so well.
Cambelts/aux belts are a nightmare on these cars though. Make sure yours has been done recently or your £1500 car will get a bill for about £500/600 in the near future. Tricky job to do. Most local garages f
k them up. Ideally needs a specialist.
Be it phase 1 or phase 2 buy one that's been looked after well. Hardly any difference between the two.
Cambelts/aux belts are a nightmare on these cars though. Make sure yours has been done recently or your £1500 car will get a bill for about £500/600 in the near future. Tricky job to do. Most local garages f
k them up. Ideally needs a specialist. Be it phase 1 or phase 2 buy one that's been looked after well. Hardly any difference between the two.
danjama said:
Thanks for the info so far, I will look to buy one with a recent Cambelt/Aux belt etc as that seems to be more of an issue than normal. And i'll also look at suspension closely. Think i'll try and get a ride in one locally.
What's the belt change frequency - isn't it every 3 years as such budget for it. Personally I'd rather buy a cheaper car where that work is coming due then sort that out myself. danjama said:
You've made a good point, but then I would have to immediately find a mechanic or specialist to trust with getting it spot on.
By the way what sort of noise do these make? I don't mean volume, but the induction, engine and exhaust noises. Are they good or harsh?
In standard form when I tested a PH2 it was really good nice OEM induction noise and it did get manic at the top end of the revs. A really good hot hatch - I was so close to buying one but then changed my mind and went for the Fiat Coupe 20 V Turbo (drastically lower ins for some reason)By the way what sort of noise do these make? I don't mean volume, but the induction, engine and exhaust noises. Are they good or harsh?
The Ignis Sport, as much as I loved mine and going round B roads in it, it will really struggle to keep up with the likes of a Clio Sport. Handling and smiles wise, they're an aboslute hoot and I would strongly recommend one if you're also looking into factors such as MPG and Insurance. Not sure if it was my driving style or the tyres or the actual car, but I do seem to remember burning through rubber quite frequently...
Another left hand choice could possibly be the Proton Satria GTI. Steers (IMO) reall really well and still a decent turn of pace. (looks and brand may not be to everyones taste.)
Other left handed choices could be Toyota Yaris 1.5 T-Sport or Corolla/Celica T-Sports. The Corolla's still a bit bigger, quite thirsty, but a nice drive. Not quite as focused as your Civic Type R's, and not quite as refined as your Focus ST160's which was probably its failing point.
Dont think any of these would be giving a Clio a particularly had time any time of day though. But still good fun alternatives. The Clio seemed to have 0-60 and handling down to a fine art in the early to mid 00's.
Another left hand choice could possibly be the Proton Satria GTI. Steers (IMO) reall really well and still a decent turn of pace. (looks and brand may not be to everyones taste.)
Other left handed choices could be Toyota Yaris 1.5 T-Sport or Corolla/Celica T-Sports. The Corolla's still a bit bigger, quite thirsty, but a nice drive. Not quite as focused as your Civic Type R's, and not quite as refined as your Focus ST160's which was probably its failing point.
Dont think any of these would be giving a Clio a particularly had time any time of day though. But still good fun alternatives. The Clio seemed to have 0-60 and handling down to a fine art in the early to mid 00's.
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