2005 RENAULT CLIO V6 255 'PHASE 2' - 4,619 MILES

This Renaultsport Clio V6 ‘Phase 2’ is a collector-quality example of the famed mid-engined hot hatch, which is finished in a rare factory colour and has exceptionally low mileage. Mounted between the driver and rear axle is a 252bhp 3.0-litre V6 engine in the place of the rear seats, which drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 4,619 miles from new.

Beyond extracting more power from the V6 engine, the Phase 2 also featured a longer wheelbase and wider track to improve stability and handling. This example is one of 354 cars produced for the UK market, and is one of just 18 finished in Mars Red. First registered in December 2005, this car has just two previous owners.

Today, the bodywork remains in outstanding condition having had the front panels fitted with PPF from new, there has never been any accident damage, dents or grazes to any of the panels. As an indicator of just how much this car has been cherished, the owner who kept the car between 2009 and 2017 stored the car in his lounge - and it has never been used in wet conditions. The Mars Red paint is an incredibly rare hue, and it presents superbly, with a deep and glossy finish all around the car. It rides on the original 18-inch alloy wheels, which are pristine.

The interior is in equally excellent condition, with no damage whatsoever to the black suede and leather seats, and only signs of light use commensurate with the mileage. All of the other trim is in great shape, with no cracks or chips in any of the plastics. Factory-fitted equipment includes climate control, cruise control and xenon headlights. The original Cabasse Auditorium stereo system with CD changer is still present, and there are no faults with any of the electrics. The seller notes that the fuses were removed from the front electric windows when the car was new to avoid any potential scratches on the glass.

The car has been safely stored over the last few years, and has had a recent inspection carried out by Clio V6 specialist SG Motorsport to ensure the mechanicals are all in good order. Its last full service was in 2019, and the previous one in 2017, when SG Motorsport also renewed the cam belt and detailed the engine bay.

The most recent MOT test was on 17 March 2017 at 4,619 miles, when it passed with no advisories after the number plates were replaced. If the intention is to drive the car on the road, it will require a fresh 12-month certificate. The wheels are fitted with the original Michelin Pilot Sport tyres from 2005, which have been well preserved, but would obviously benefit from changing given their age before any enthusiast road use.

Accompanying the car are all of the original books and accessories. The tools are still safely stored in the boot, and there are two keys.

This Renaultsport Clio V6 Phase 2 is a genuine ‘time warp’ example of the marque’s unmistakable millennium-era hot hatch. It is no overstatement to suggest that the car remains in showroom condition, and it is presented in a very rare factory colour. Undoubtedly a collectable and exciting modern classic; this particular car is certainly one of the very best existence.

Service history, as stamped in the service book:

• 17.11.07 – 2,490 miles Rogate Renault
• 08.06.09 – 3,481 miles Rogate Renault
• 24.07.10 – 4,158 miles Rogate Renault
• 29.01.13 – 4,601 miles SG Motorsport
• 21.07.15 – 4,617 miles SG Motorsport
• 24.03.17 – 4,621 miles (cam belt and water pump) SG Motorsport
• 20.07.19 – 4,634 miles SG Motorsport

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.