2013 RENAULTSPORT MEGANE RED BULL RACING RB8

KEY FACTS

• An exceptionally rare and thrilling limited-edition hot hatch; one of just 30 cars in the country, and first used by Renault UK for press duties.
• Under the bonnet is the rev-happy 265hp 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four, coupled to a six-speed manual transmission.
• Offered by its fifth keeper from new, who acquired the car just over three years ago.
• Build number 133 from total production of 250 units.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The Red Bull Racing RB8 special edition was equipped with the supportive Recaro bucket seats, the acclaimed Cup chassis, and the sought-after limited-slip differential to help put its impressive power output down through the front wheels.
• Cosmetic changes included unique Twilight Blue paintwork derived from the Red Bull F1 cars, 19-inch ‘Steev’ alloy wheels, red brake callipers, and subtle Red Bull decals along the flanks and on the boot hatch.
• Also standard was the R-Link touch-screen infotainment and navigation system, Renaultsport Monitor for performance telemetry, a Bluetooth stereo with MP3 playback, dual-zone climate control, push-button start, USB socket, rear parking sensors, and cruise control.
• The car remains original and unmodified, with the exception of a performance K&N air filter.
• Its wheels are all shod in Nexen N Fera SU1 tyres, which are date-coded to 2020.
• Accompanying the car is the original stamped service book, plus all invoices since the seller acquired the car in April 2018.
• As this particular Megane RB8 was Renault’s UK press car, there are numerous articles online showing the car being put through its paces, supporting its provenance.

CONDITION

• There is no bodywork damage, and no sign of any prior repairs.
• Its Twilight Blue paintwork is believed to be all original and remains in generally excellent condition, though there are some small lacquer blemishes around the front of the car - clearly shown in the gallery - and other minor marks commensurate with the mileage.
• All four alloy wheels have previously been poorly painted - prior to the seller’s ownership - and also have some kerbing marks, so these would benefit from being refurbished in due course.
• The interior is in superb order for its age, and while the outer bolsters of the driver’s seat show surface wear, there are no rips or tears in the upholstery, and the condition of the Recaro seats generally belies the mileage.
• Its rear bench has obviously seen very little use, with the cloth upholstery still in excellent condition.
• There is a small nick on the trim on top of the driver’s door, but otherwise the cabin elements present very well, including the leather-clad steering wheel.
• The boot floor is reported to sag slightly, which is believed to be a common issue as there is no structure below to support the boot liner.
• There are no known electrical or mechanical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was on 22 April 2021 at 87,292 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories whatsoever. In fact, the car has never failed an MOT test, and has never had any warnings or alerts regarding a fault or wear - which is further evidence of a well-cared for example.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Last serviced in April 2021 at 87,292 miles, this was a minor service including new engine oil and filter, as well as replacement of the offside front ball joint, wheel bearing and driveshaft as some knocking was previously identified due to a failed ball joint.
• Recent previous services were in November 2019 at 74,934 miles, and in January 2019 at 62,025 miles; the latter being at Renault specialist DDC in Doncaster.
• During the seller’s ownership, all four tyres have been replaced (in November 2020), and all four brake discs and pad sets were renewed (in February 2021). The R-Link infotainment system has also been updated in line with manufacturer recommendations.

Dates and mileage:

• 15.12.2014 - 13,702 miles (Arnold Clark)
• 04.09.2015 - 26,680 miles (The Car People)
• 02.02.2017 - 38,232 miles (Lookers Newcastle)
• 18.04.2018 - 49,925 miles (Europa Mercedes Sheffield)
• 09.01.2019 - 62,025 miles (DDC Doncaster)
• 25.11.2019 - 74,934 miles (Harratts Wakefield)
• 22.04.2021 - 87,292 miles (Crofton Garage Wakefield)

SUMMARY

This Renaultsport Megane Red Bull Racing RB8 is a very well-maintained and especially rare modern hot hatch, which CAR magazine said was “mind-blowingly great to drive” when tested in 2013. Despite this car’s mileage, the seller reports that the car feels “extremely tight”, particularly with a slick clutch and gearbox feel, and with its firm but compliant Cup chassis setup. In special edition trim, this Megane was equipped with all the comfort and convenience features you would hope for, and this example has been thoroughly enjoyed and cherished by its current owner.

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. 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.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.