Right here we go.. Having owned a MK2 1.6 16v, a MK1 172, a MK2 172, a MK2 172cup and a 182 with both cup packs, I think that I am in a better than average position to comment.
First the MK1 1.6 16v - Seemed to be lacking in the power and performance front. Having come from another 1.6 16v, not a Renault, it did not do all that I thought it would.
Then there was the MK1 172 - What a top car. Loads of power, well specked, nice seats, branded wheels and the alloy bonnet, Renault were thinking of us in those days.
Then there was the MK2 172 - To be totally truthful, a bit of a let down. all that was good in the MK 1 striped away. OK so they gave us cruse control and a speed limiter, esp and climate controls instead of air-condition. But it was just a shame that they had to fix something that was not broken.
Now the MK2 172cup - Now the only way to look at this car is as something completely different to the others. It is a hooligan. Ok it is the newer shape but that is pretty much all that it shares. No esp, no abs, no air con and it only weighs 1015Kg you get the idea.
And finally the 182 - Here we have all the toys in a car that now has the history of having a hooligan in the family. It has nice alloys, good ride and handling a bit of refinery but with the hint of nutter lurking in the background.
So what would I have. Well I drive a 172cup and the wife has a 182.
This is all just my opinion it is not intended to start a Mines better then Yours row.