2005 Renaultsport Clio 182 Trophy * 1 owner, 10k miles *

Please note that the photographs have been provided by the seller

Highlights 

• Revered, driver-focussed analogue hot hatch

• Limited edition model – one of only 500 UK cars

• One owner from new

• Exceptionally low mileage

• Wholly original

• Manual gearbox

• Well-maintained

• In superb condition inside and out

• Advisory-free MOT

Overview

Anyone with even a passing interest in cars (and quite a few with none whatsoever come to think of it) will be well aware of Renault's impressive history when it comes to sporty little hatchbacks. The Renault 5 Alpine was a defining model back in the '70s and the subsequent Renault 5 Turbo in the '80s was even more significant. Then it was the turn of the humble Clio to get a bit of a tickle in the performance department with the brilliant Williams edition in '93, and souped-up Clios would continue to be offered by the French manufacturer for decades, with the Clio RS 182 from 2005 arguably being one of the best of an already impressive bunch .

Developed by Renaultsport, Renault's high performance division, and following on from the 172, there were actually three versions of the Clio RS 182: the standard 182, the more race-focussed 182 Cup and the limited edition 182 Trophy. With only 500 ever made the Trophy got the full package, including a suitably imposing rear spoiler borrowed from the Clio V6, Recaro racing seats, uprated (and incredibly expensive) Sachs suspension with remote reservoirs and 16” Speedline Turini wheels. Combined with the car's 180bhp, 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine and short-ratio five-speed manual transmission the 182 Trophy is hailed by many as one of the greatest hot hatches ever made and has rightly earned its reputation as a yardstick by which all others are measured.    

This particular model, number 169 of the aforementioned 500, was supplied new by Masters Renault of Shirley in Surrey on the 6th of August 2005 and has remained with its first and only private owner ever since. Having covered just over 10K miles in total the car is incredibly well-preserved and presents in excellent condition throughout. 

This example’s distinction lies further in its originality and care. The specification is untouched and wholly original and in 2022 the car benefited from a comprehensive service, including a replacement cam belt, ensuring an impressive level of mechanical integrity. Clearly cherished and well-maintained from the off, this Clio RS 182 Trophy is a stunning representation of a rare, iconic and hugely rewarding hatchback from a time when pure, analogue driver's cars were still very much celebrated before everything got a bit too digital.

History and documentation

• 2005 model year

• Build number 169 of just 500 made for the UK market

• Supplied new by Masters Renault of Shirley in Surrey on the 6th August 2005

• V5C present

• Original book pack and manuals

• Multiple original keys

• One single keeper from new

• First registered Aug 2005

• Comprehensively serviced in September 2022, including engine oil and filter, new cam belt, pollen filter, spark plugs, coolant, and tyres

• New battery and alternator June 2024

• London ULEZ compliant

• Advisory-free MOT until 17 July 2026

• 10,620 indicated miles 

Interior

• Untouched factory spec in excellent condition throughout

• Minimal wear and tear commensurate with the car's mileage

• Half-leather Recaro Trendline seats with Alcantara centres present well with tight upholstery and unmarked bolsters

• Renaultsport plaque on the driver’s seat frame declaring the car's number

• The rear bench looks practically unused

• Door cards and carpets are in fine shape

• Steering wheel, gear knob and trim show none of the fatigue so often seen

• No signs of any damage with only some light marks to the dashboard fascia to note

• Air conditioning

• Electric windows

• Radio/CD player

• Heated rear screen

• Cruise control on the multifunction steering wheel 

• Full set of floor mats included

• Boot space is clean and tidy and the factory tools are present

• The parcel shelf is present and correct

• The seller reports that the boot lid gas struts have been replaced

• Engine bay presents well and there are no signs of any build up of grime or oil leaks

Exterior

• The car's bodywork presents very well overall

• Capsicum Red paint remains in superb condition 

• No signs of any corrosion anywhere to the exterior

• Model-specific badging present and correct

• No evidence of any major damage or repairs

• Panel gaps are uniform across the board

• No issues with any of the window glass or light lenses

• All four factory 16” Speedline Turini wheels are in superb shape with only a couple of very light scuff marks here and there to note

• Locking wheel nuts and keys included

• Tyres are all matching Michelin Pilot Sport 3 dating from 2022

Mechanical

• 180bhp, 2.0-litre 16-valve four-cylinder engine

• Five-speed manual gearbox

• Front-wheel drive

• 0-62mph in 6.5s

• 138mph top speed

• Sachs motorsport dampers with remote reservoirs and reinforced rods

• Strengthened hubs with 60mm bolt spacing

• No mechanical issues to report

• The vendor reports that the car has been carefully cosseted throughout its life and preserved rather than merely used

Summary

A benchmark for what a hot hatch should be, the Renaultsport Clio 182 Trophy is a beautifully balanced, analogue and driver-focussed masterclass of the genre that remains as compelling today as it did 20 years ago. You'll be hard pressed to find another with such low miles and in such good condition so snap this up now while you have the chance. Not only will you be the proud owner of one of Renault's best but it also makes sense as an investment piece. It truly is a win-win situation.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Epsom, Surrey.