2005 RENAULTSPORT CLIO 182 TROPHY

This Renaultsport Clio 182 Trophy is a highly original example of a landmark limited-edition hot hatch, presented with genuine low mileage. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four engine producing 180bhp, coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer shows 48,733 miles from new, which is fully supported by the service and MOT history.

First registered in September 2005, this is car number 262 of just 500 examples built for the UK market, and there are five previous registered keepers on the log book. The seller acquired the car just over three years ago, and has kept the car very well maintained during his ownership.

Today, the bodywork remains in great shape, with flush shut lines and no evidence of any accident damage. Its Capsicum Red paint is believed to be the factory finish, and presents with just a few stone chips to the front bumper and bonnet. As the detailed photos below show, this is a very smart car that has evidently been well cared-for. The only modification to its exterior specification is the addition of a Scorpion RS192 performance exhaust system, which boosts the aural character of the engine and adds a few extra horsepower. The seller states that the car has been given a Waxoyl treatment in the past, and that the underside is free of rust.

Inside, the original Recaro front seats remain in place, trimmed in a combination of black leather and charcoal cloth. There is minimal wear on the seat bases and bolsters, commensurate with the low mileage. A few minor marks and light scuffs are present on the typical high-wear areas, around the foot wells in particular, but generally this Clio’s cabin is in superb condition. Its steering wheel has been re-trimmed with the car’s limited-run number and smart red accents. The original radio is fitted, and the equipment includes air-conditioning and cruise control. There are no faults with any of the switchgear or electrics.

Within the last two months, the seller has had the front Sachs OEM dampers replaced with brand-new original items at considerable expense – not to be confused with other Trophy cars that often have refurbished items fitted. Prior to this, its last scheduled maintenance was carried out in September 2019 at 46,843 miles by Renault specialist Two Techs in Dartford, Kent. This consisted of a minor oil service, including renewal of the pollen filter. Other recent services were in September 2018 and August 2016, with the latter including replacement of the cam belt and water pump at 39,995 miles.

The most recent MOT test was on 18 September 2019 at 46,615 miles, which resulted in a pass with only one advisory regarding worn front tyres - which have just been replaced. A few days earlier, it had failed due to insufficient washer fluid and a split driveshaft rubber boot, and both items were rectified. Per the replacement mentioned above, the front tyres are in as-new condition, while there is also a reasonable level of tread on the rear tyres.

Accompanying the car is a complete set of books, including the stamped maintenance record, as well as several recent invoices, two keys, and a bespoke key fob with the car’s unique build number.

The Clio 182 Trophy is one of the most celebrated of all Renaultsport models, winning the PistonHeads ‘Best Hot Hatch of the 21st Century’ vote in 2019, and described by renowned journalist Andrew Frankel in 2016 as “shockingly capable and shockingly good fun”.

This Renaultsport Clio 182 Trophy is a wonderfully original example of this lauded and accessible performance car, presented in very clean condition, and with a detailed history to evidence the low mileage. It would make a superb addition to any collection of modern classics, and deserves to be driven and enjoyed on the road as often as possible.

Summary of service and MOT history:

• 15 Aug 2007 - 11,847 miles (Service)
• 8 Sep 2008 - 17,792 miles (MOT)
• 17 Aug 2009 - 23,445 miles (MOT)
• 5 Oct 2009 - 24,771 miles (Service)
• 16 Aug 2010 - 27,909 miles (MOT)
• 15 Aug 2011 - 30,781 miles (MOT)
• 15 Aug 2012 - 32,967 miles (MOT)
• 15 Aug 2013 - 34,654 miles (MOT)
• 30 Aug 2013 - 34,910 miles (Service)
• 1 Oct 2014 - 38,567 miles (Service and MOT)
• 2 Sep 2015 - 39,816 miles (MOT)
• 19 Aug 2016 - 39,868 miles (MOT)
• 30 Aug 2016 - 39,995 miles (Service)
• 17 Aug 2017 - 40,515 miles (MOT)
• 11 Sep 2018 - 41,101 miles (Service and MOT)
• 18 Sep 2019 - 46,615 miles (MOT)
• 21 Sep 2019 - 46,843 miles (Service)
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