Phase 2 172 or 2010 197 ?

[kiwi]

Hi all,

First post to Clio Sport but long time RS driver. Awesome Forum!

I've currently got a phase 2 172 from 2002 with 180,000 KMs' on it. It owes me almost nothing and is going strong. I love driving it and would only replace it with something very similar.

Recently I've got a line on a well priced 2010 197. It's in great condition, single owner, full service history, 80K on the clock.

I drive a road which is basically a 100KM race track 2-4 times per week (seriously it's a tarmac rally road and was previously used for WRC before it was sealed about 5 years ago) so I really drive it hard we both love. Alas, I haven't had the opportunity to drive the 197 under those conditions so can't really tell if it's a step up performance and handling wise than the 172.

Question is, should I hold on to the 172 and spend some money upgrading it (if so what) OR should I trade the 172 for the 197.

Prompt answers appreciated - I have to make a decision this week
Thanks in advance.

 

[Filippo]

Well drive a 197 and see what you think I guess, pal.

 

[Nik]

Welcome to the club, kiwi!

 

[kiwi]

Thanks Filippo,
Sorry I should have elaborated, I have driven the 197, just not under what I consider 'real driving conditions' ...just around the city and motorway, not on a track or backroad. I'm not going to have the opportunity to do so before making a decision on this car.

 

[Corby G]

at the end of the day if you go for the 197, drive it for a couple of months, you'll have experienced all there is. If you don't like it move on.