Renaultsport Clio V6 255 (2004/54)
SOLD
In March 1998, Renault launched the second generation of their hugely successful supermini, the Clio. To promote the new model, Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) of Jaguar Le Mans fame were drafted in to help build a race car for a one make Clio series. A 3 litre V6 from a Renault Laguna was inserted in the middle of the car behind the front seats with drive now going to the rear wheels. In 2001, following the success of the series, a road going version of the car was launched. Known as the V6 Phase 1, it was later replaced in 2003 by a facelifted Phase 2 version. Aside from the visual changes, the Phase 2 gained 25bhp as well as addressing many of the unwieldy handling characteristics (particularly in the wet) which plagued the Phase 1 cars. The Clio V6’s unique mid-engined, rear wheel drive layout was a true homage to the 1980s Renault 5 Turbo which preceded it and achieved so much Rally success.
SPECIFICATION
Colour: Black Gold
Interior: Black Cloth / Alcantara
Year: 2004
Mileage: 17,500
Engine: 3.0L V6
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Body Style: Hatchback
Fuel: Petrol
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INVESTMENT THESIS
First registered in September 2004, UK car #214 is 1 of only 74 UK supplied Black Gold examples. Having covered 17,500 miles from new, this lovely example spent a number of years in dry storage before having a complete recommissioning service carried out by marque specialist SG Motorsport in Feb 2021. In addition to a major engine out cambelt service, new brake discs and pads were fitted along with a new starter motor. The final bill for the work carried out on the car came to just under £4,500.
The car is in brilliant condition both mechanically and cosmetically and would make a fine addition to any modern classic collection.
With only 2,822 V6 cars ever produced globally (1513 units Phase1 and 1309 units Phase 2) between 2001-2005; it is unlikely we ever see a mid-engined, rear wheel drive hot hatchback produced again. The naturally aspirated 3 litre V6 is also a dying breed with most modern day performance hatches favouring 1.4-2litre turbocharged configurations.
The styling is a huge part of this cars character. With its wide arches, low stance and side air intakes all taken directly from the Clio V6 Trophy car, it creates a very unique silhouette on the road.
You don’t appreciate what a special driver’s car the V6 is until you get it onto a B-road. The ride is firm yet pliable while the steering is refreshingly analogue versus modern day exotica but still very communicative. Then you step on the throttle and hear the smooth sound of the 3 litre V6 coming to life in an extremely linear way. Gear changes are seamless through the 6 speed manual gearbox with great torque at the lower end of the rev range.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Air Conditioning
Bi-Xenon Headlights
CD Player with 6 CD Multi-Changer
Alarm and Immobiliser
Tracker
2 Keys
TECHNICAL FEATURES
PERFORMANCE
Engine Size: 2946 cc
Top Speed: 153 mph
0-62mph: 5.8 sec
Power: 255 bhp
DIMENSIONS
Height: 1420 mm
Length: 3830 mm
Width: 1940 mm
EMISSIONS & MPG
CO2: 285 g/km
Combined: 23 mpg