Build quality on the new Mk3s, like the 197, is a huge step forward over the Renaults of old. Also, all 197s are under 3 years old, and so still under manfacturers warranty - so if you do have any niggles, they'll get sorted out for free anyway. And if you're looking at a new one, then you get 3 years warranty. And don't let him give you any rubbish about dealers always getting out of paying warranty claims - cos a lot of old people seem to think that for some reason - it's just a load of rubbish. I've never had a problem, nor do I know anyone that's had a problem, and the only problems I've read about on here were with either 3rd party warrantys, or 2nd hand Renault dealer warrantys on cars over 3 years old.
But more to the point, if it's your money, do it anyway, if he's paying for it, think yourself lucky and be grateful for whatever you get.