The Clio Renaultsport 197 made its world debut at Geneva show in March 2006 and although heavier than its predecessor, performance was marginally enhanced - with greater power (197hp), more torque and a new six-speed gearbox with shorter gearing, the standard car reached 62mph in just 6.9 seconds.
Early 197 met some criticism...
2007 saw the limited-edition Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team launched with a focused Cup chassis. This chassis setting eventually became standard on the Clio Renaultsport 197 Cup, launched later that year, which, as before, came with less equipment and an impressive price to performance ratio. Offering the same pin-sharp handling, understated styling and strong performance of previous incarnations, the 197 did possess a very firm ride which could make some journeys uncomfortable or tiring.
For those customers wanting a little more pampering a 197 Lux version was introduced in November 2008, soon followed by a £17,250 Renaultsport Clio F1 Team R27 limited edition. Then in May 2009 a facelifted 141mph Clio Renaultsport 200 and £16,930 Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup and were launched with improvements to the engine and suspension.
A variety of further special editions followed, including the 2010 Renault Clio Gordini 200, the 2011 Silverstone GP and the £21,695 2012 Renaultsport Raider.
... enter another excellent Clio Cup soon after!
None of the Clio III models currently seem destined for classic status, but they are still cracking little cars. "They can take a good thrashing on track all day long, yet still drive you home in relative comfort," David at K-Tec points out. "Like overgrown go karts with a great chassis and an engine that likes to be worked hard, it's the Cup models that are more sought after - especially if fitted with the Speedline wheels, Recaro seats and Cup rear spoiler." Note though that some early examples did suffer from gearbox issues, plus manifold and swivel hub bearing issues. Quite a few have had replacement gearboxes fitted by Renault under warranty.
Make sure you get as big a discount as you can though because, according to Rob Donaldson at Glass's: "These models suffer from high depreciation, with values are still dropping in line with general market conditions. The Gordini limited edition however, looks good," Rob highlights, "and should carry a premium."
Buy if: You want a reliable, contemporary and affordable hot Clio
Don't buy if: You're hoping to get your money back any time soon
We found: 2008 Renaultsport Clio F1 Team, yellow, service history, 63K miles, £7,599
Price Guide
Poor: Under £4,000
Good: £4,000 to £9,500
A1: £9,500+
Special Editions: Silverstone GP £10,000 to £13,000, Gordini 200 £8,000 to 14,000
