Some people in this thread if they had any idea about the Saxo or Clio would of stopped posting a while ago. Its nice to see some people have some common sense.
It seems the sensible choice for vtr/s owners is a 1*2 when finding a next car which i can understand, ive done it.
In regards to a 1.6 clio, thats vtr pace, not vts, nowhere near the mark. Build quality is the same as a clio perhaps better in certain trim levels and reliability of the vts is fantastic, the 16v engine is bullet proof with the right service at the right time.
The vts as mentioned does come with a couple of niggles, insurance group is very high and the fact its not a very safe car.
My advice, get a 106 gti, roll cage and cams and you have everything a 172 has to offer but a packet saved.