MX-5 Enthusiast seeks Clio 172 Ph1 for weekday fun and maybe more ;)

[jamesthesmith]

Hi All,

Currently I have a 270bhp mk1 MX-5 turbo but I've recently got a job with a bit more of a commute so am looking for a daily hack.

I need a fun, safe hatchback with relatively good fuel economy and this lead me to the inevitable conclusion of a RenaultSport Clio…

I've narrowed it down to a 172 Ph1 as the limited amount I've read suggests they're a bit more involving due to the reduced weight and cable throttle. I also prefer the front end. (Let's not mention the interior..)

Looking forward to learning a bit more about these cars on here, I've always wanted one really but can now justify the purchase!

My first question would be how long do the clutches tend to last on these cars? I might be seeing one this weekend with 83,000 on the clock and it's still on the original clutch. Should this be a concern?

 

[Tom]

Welcome to ClioSport, jamesthesmith

 

[Brett]

There are members on here that have 172's on 130+K miles on the original clutch. Clutch is not a common problem. A modest torque output and linear power delivery doesn't put much strain on it. Unless its been launched constantly all its life.

There are a few really good buying guides on here mate. Have a search.

Oh, and welcome to the club.

 

[MarkCup]

Hi All,

Currently I have a 270bhp mk1 MX-5 turbo but I've recently got a job with a bit more of a commute so am looking for a daily hack.

I need a fun, safe hatchback with relatively good fuel economy and this lead me to the inevitable conclusion of a RenaultSport Clio…

I've narrowed it down to a 172 Ph1 as the limited amount I've read suggests they're a bit more involving due to the reduced weight and cable throttle. I also prefer the front end. (Let's not mention the interior..)

Looking forward to learning a bit more about these cars on here, I've always wanted one really but can now justify the purchase!

My first question would be how long do the clutches tend to last on these cars? I might be seeing one this weekend with 83,000 on the clock and it's still on the original clutch. Should this be a concern?

The OE clutch on my 172 Cup saw regular track use and over 120k miles from new without plate wear causing the clutch to fail.

If abused though, I'm sure you could kill one in less than 20k.

With these cars, mileage is only a small factor. Condition, history, and your take on the seller is far more important.

 

[jamesthesmith]

The OE clutch on my 172 Cup saw regular track use and over 120k miles from new without plate wear causing the clutch to fail.

If abused though, I'm sure you could kill one in less than 20k.

With these cars, mileage is only a small factor. Condition, history, and your take on the seller is far more important.

Ok that's encouraging, I thought that may be the case.
Will hunt down a buyers guide before I view any!

 

[DannyR]

Welcome!

It wasn't you I briefly spoke to in Bury at the weekend was it?!

 

[jamesthesmith]

Welcome!

It wasn't you I briefly spoke to in Bury at the weekend was it?!

Nope, afraid I've never had the pleasure Danny!

 

[Addicted]

Got any pics of the MX-5?

 

[SWJames]

This is the opposite of what I was planning a few months back..l I wanted to go from my Clio to a Mk1 mx5 eunos, decided against it in the end after reading quite a few horror stories about rusted sills etc on a mx5 forum. But welcome to the club and pictures of the mx5 would be good to post up!

 

[EllD90]

If you sign up for a membership, you'll find plenty of clean examples for sale.

 

[jamesthesmith]

This is the opposite of what I was planning a few months back..l I wanted to go from my Clio to a Mk1 mx5 eunos, decided against it in the end after reading quite a few horror stories about rusted sills etc on a mx5 forum. But welcome to the club and pictures of the mx5 would be good to post up!

They all rust... some quicker than others. But there are plenty out there with solid sills (usually the imports) or ones that have had the work done. Nice and easy to inspect too.
All I can say is... drive one. You will buy one!

This is the only pic I've got at the moment.

It's been off the road for a few weeks being treated to a full underseal, painted running gear, SuperPro polybushes and a nice new set of coilovers. Can't wait to get it going again!

 

[SWJames]

Looks spot on the mate, I just love the pop up headlights on them haha