Renaultsport Clio V6 255 (2005/55)
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. Know as the V6 Phase I, it was later replaced in 2003 by a facelifted Phase II version. Aside from the visual changes, the Phase II gained 25bhp as well as addressing many of the unwieldy handling characteristics (particularly in the wet) which plagued the Phase I. 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: Titanium Silver
Interior: Black Leather / Cloth
Year: 2005
Mileage: 22,800
Engine: 3.0L V6
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Body Style: Hatchback
Fuel: Petrol
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INVESTMENT THESIS
First registered in September 2005, UK car #327 is an stunning Titanium Silver (1 of 37 UK cars) example which has covered 22,800 miles from new. Previously supplied by us to its last owner in 2019, the car has travelled just 500 miles since then and has been dry stored with the rest of the owners collection. Maintained by SG Motorsport, the car will be returning to the marque specialist for a major engine out service including cambelt and water pump before being delivered to its new owner.
With only 2,822 V6 cars ever produced globally (1513 units Phase I and 1309 units Phase II) 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 large side air intakes all taken directly from the Clio V6 Trophy car which preceded it create a truly imposing road presence.
You don’t appreciate what an incredible driver’s car the V6 is until you get it onto a B-road. The ride is firm yet pliable and steering is refreshingly analogue versus modern day exotica but still very communicative and responsive. Then you step on the throttle and hear the remarkably smooth sound of the 3 litre V6 coming to life in an extremely linear way. Gear changes are seamless through the 6 speed manual 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
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