My dad's had the 230 Kompressor (2.3 supercharged) Mk1 (with the black sills) and now the 320 (3.2 v6) Mk1 ph2 (with the skirts) both are what I'd regard as fairly quick for such solidly built cars, but you are right the 200 isnt the quickest, never-the-less the ride is very smooth and they are great looking cars, hasn't your dad got a quick lotus?
Both cars were reliable and he get's good mpg from the v6. He buys a parts and labour warranty which is like £800 a year on account of the miles he does, merc parts and labour make Renault's servicing costs seem like peanuts!
My dad's been talking about getting a Porsche 911 next or a new mustang GT V8, I'm hoping he goes for the mustang personally, he'll only have it if he can get one ready converted to RHD.