pmsl at don't want to start an argument and that the clio is the best car in its class .. a clio owner would say that !!
Well ok then... this is my last reply to this thread, and hopefully, to any other of these inane threads, but i'll let you ponder that for moment.
First, forget about the CTR, its NOT in the same size class as the Clio, nor was it really in the same price class, given that its OTR price was originally around £2k (more like £3k with air con) more than the clio. It is therefore not to be considered in the same class at all.
So what was left at the time of the 182?
Well there was the Ibiza Cupra, fast, but no faster than the 182, and the handling is poor (and i've driven it before anyone says anything).
Smart ForFour Brabus. Has anyone actually seen one?
Fiesta ST? Heavier and less powerful.
Colt CZT? Less powerful, worse handling.
Lupo GTI? Are these even in the same class? Less powerful by far.
Fabia vRS? I owned one of these. Nice cars, but in no way as good a hot hatch.
106 GTI / Saxo VTS - Maybe a bit small and cheap to be considered real rivals, but in my eyes, the most competitive rival. Also near to or at the end of their lives as the 172 and 182 were around.
206 GTI - I think most people on here would agree the clio is more highly regarded, outperforming (just) and outhandling.
So why do people on here think that stating the 182 is the best hot hatch in its class so ridiculous?
On that note, i am done with this equally ridiculous thread. I am going to try my best not to contribute to them any more, because they are, well, pointless.