2001 Renault Clio Sport 172 Exclusive

Description

• UNSOLD at auction October 2023 
• One of 172 built for the UK 
• Scarab Green Metallic Paint 
• A rare premium 90s hot hatch 
• Will come with a fresh MOT 
• One of three 90s classics we have at auction from a larger collection

The Renault Clio Sport 172 Phase 1 was born in the long shadow of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo. It was a hard act to follow but it didn’t disappoint. The Clio Sport continued the tradition of lightweight, fun to drive Gallic hot hatches. With muscular bodylines, it felt a good deal more substantial than its predecessor. It had lost none of its joie de vivre and nimbleness. When it launched, it was the best equipped and most powerful hot hatch on the market  

The Clio Sport 172 Exclusive took things to another level. And with only 172 numbered models released in the UK, when they come to market, they are quickly snapped up by enthusiasts and collectors. This one is number 35. 

Mechanicals 

• 2.0 litre F4R 730 16-Valve Inline 4 
• Variable valve timing 
• 172bhp 
• 0-60 in 6.6 secs 
• Sports handling pack 
• Upgraded springs and dampers 
• Reworked steering rack 
• Five speed gearbox 
• 15” BBS alloys 
• MOT until September 2024 

The introduction of premium price points for the Renault Clio Sport 172 Exclusive meant the model was beyond the budgets of most boy racers. You’ll be hard pressed to find an abused one. This one has escaped the clutches of the go-faster brigade and is completely standard. You’ll get a decent indication of the Clio from the images of the engine bay in the Gallery. 

Outside 

• Unique Scarab Green 
• Bespoke 172 bumpers 
• Subtle factory body kit 
• Wider front wings 
• Aluminium bonnet  
• Front driving lamps 

Aside from the odd wear and tear mark consistent with a 24-year-old classic, this Renault Clio Sport is in clean and unmodified condition. 

Inside 

• Classic white clocks 
• Drilled alloy pedals 
• Full Dune Grey leather unique to the Exclusive 
• Number 35 of 172 on chrome sill plates 
• Original Dealer doc pack 

The inside is again in clean, tidy condition which belies the Clio Sport’s age. The rare Exclusive models were over £16,000 when new. The price point being dictated by the sumptuous interior not normally associated with a 90s hot hatch. It is a testament to the quality and engineering of Renault that this interior remains in the condition it is. 

Bottom line 

This Renault Clio Sport 172 Exclusive is one of three 90s hot hatches from our vendor’s collection that we’re pleased to bring to market. 

Owning one of these, that 30 years ago Renault engineers gave every ounce of their flair to, is becoming a rare prize. Finding one of just a 172 that were built is even tougher. Va, Va, Voom! 

None of us have A-level French, but we think translates to – don’t miss this!.. good luck.