1996 Renault Clio RT

Lot details
Registration No: N803FRV
Chassis No: VF1C57B0513857335
Mot Expiry: None

The first generation Renault Clio is remembered fondly for its `Papa? Nicole?' advertising, and ran from March 1991-1997 as a UK market car. A strong seller for the nationalised French company, it won the prestigious European Car of the Year award during 1991 and evolved through Phase 2 (1993) and Phase 3 (1995) guises before making way for the Clio II in late 1997. Based around a three- or five-door monocoque bodyshell, its supple suspension and positive steering made for an engaging drive. While the wide choice of petrol and diesel four-cylinder engines on offer ranged from 1.1 litres through to the 2.0 litre 16-valve lump found under the bonnet of the iconic Renault Clio Williams.

Featured on the front cover of `Extreme Renault Clio' by Bob Jex, this 1996 1.4 litre RT three-door has a smoothed-out body kit to give the Urban style so suited to these early Clios. BMW M3-type mirrors are included, as is a rear spoiler and Bee-sting aerial, as found on all the best German cars. A K&N filter, Peco exhaust, Spax uprated front and rear dampers and quad lamps complete the performance modifications, while 17-inch BK racing alloys are fitted. The tailgate has been flushed-in and smoothed-over to complement the tinted windows. The interior is truly stunning with a Momo steering wheel and Sparco pedals, plus a full re-trim in cream and black leather. Under the bonnet, the suspension is enhanced with a Momo-badged strut brace. Music is provided by twin Alpine V-power amplifiers and a 12-inch subwoofer box to feed the bass and get an authentic drop. Although `N803 FRV' looks to be highly presentable, the Museum advises that it must not be used on the road without being fully recommissioned and subjected to all the safety checks associated with a MOT test etc. As a static Haynes exhibit for the past six years, this Clio, along with its sister cars, represents a fascinating study into the culture of car modifying in Britain in the early part of the 21st Century.

PLEASE NOTE: Haynes Museum requires that the successful buyer signs a disclaimer, a copy of which is available to inspect in the documents office.