2001 RENAULTSPORT CLIO 172 EXCLUSIVE - 34,245 MILES

This 2001 Renaultsport Clio 172 is a rare version of the benchmark hot hatch of the early 2000s. Its engine is a ‘F4R’ 2.0-litre inline-four delivering 170bhp to the front wheels, in a car weighing only 1035kg. Power is marshalled through a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer in this cherished example reads just 34,245 miles.

Understood to have spent its life in Jersey to date, this Clio 172 was first registered on 4 May 2001. The current vendor has owned and enjoyed it for the last two years.

Visual upgrades over the regular Clio included sports seats, air-conditioning and a subtle bodykit. This example is an even-rarer ‘Exclusive’ version, with only 172 of them finished in Scarab Green paintwork with BBS alloy wheels and full leather interior.

The bodywork’s deep green finish is in excellent condition, with an even shine throughout, and only minor imperfections. The panels retain even shut lines, and the vendor notes only two minor pin-sized dents on the driver’s door, and minor stone chips to the wing mirrors. It retains the model-specific 10-spoke 15-inch BBS alloy wheels, though two of them would now benefit from refurbishment.

Inside, the full leather interior adds a touch of luxury to this capable hot hatch. All of the seats are in good condition for the age, with only minor wear visible on the driver’s side outer bolster. Some wear is also visible on the steering wheel and the door trims, as well as the seat belts. This 172 retains all of its original switchgear and features, including its cassette deck stereo system, with the vendor reporting no electrical issues with the car. Along the sill covers are numbered plates, showing this car as number 151 of the 172-strong production run.

This Clio 172 was given a major service by Motorcare of Jersey in August 2020. This entailed replacement of the cambelt and water pump, as well as the handbrake cable, brake fluid and clutch. The engine was also serviced, with the engine oil, oil filter and air filter renewed. Prior to this, there are service stamps in the book from 2010 at 23,048 miles, 2006 at 14,843 miles, and 2002. The vendor reports that the tyres still have around half their tread depth remaining.

Now available to its next enthusiast owner, this Clio 172 will be supplied with its original handbooks including stamped service record. In addition, the factory-supplied tool kit and spare wheel are also present.

This Renaultsport Clio 172 Exclusive is an original, low mileage and unmodified example of a rare limited edition, which was something of a swansong for the ‘Phase 1’ model. While this example has some areas for cosmetic improvement, it is fresh from a major service, and offers an affordable entry point into the world of collectable modern classics – not to mention that of sparkling chassis dynamics and featherweight performance.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

As this car is not UK-registered, it cannot be run through Collecting Cars’ standard online HPI check process.