1998 Renault Clio

Summary:

Dangerous sack of over-ripe potatoes

Faults:

Exhaust pipe leaks.

The dashboard is falling apart because the plastic is embarrassingly low-quality.

The valves have started to click, and the engine is starting to sound like a diesel after about 900 kms.

Horrible smell of gasoline in the car.

Seats don't adjust well, they stick on their rails, so it's almost impossible to move them back or forwards.

The driver's side door sticks, and it's very difficult to open from the inside.

The hood lock has broken loose from its housing, so half of the time, we are unsure whether the hood is properly locked in place or not.

Both rear-view mirrors (on the doors) have broken off their base, but seem to stay in place due to the power of gravity.

The clutch is jumpy and over-sensitive.

General Comments:

The car is powerful and fast, but has neither the weight distribution nor the suspension to support such power.

It's dangerous around corners, and looks like it's going to flip over if you push it too hard.

Anonymous styling and boring to drive.

Small and uncomfortable overall. Plush seats, but zero legroom.

The dashboard looks like it was designed by someone with a severe back injury. Nothing is easy to reach, nor has it the slightest sense of ergonomics.

The horn is on a stick on the turn-signal switch... What??!!

No power steering... feels like you are driving a dead elephant. The handling is equally stodgy.

Tiny narrow tires make the car feel like it's going to swerve out of control any time.

Too dangerous or unsafe to go above 80 kms/h, unstable. The high center of gravity, and lack of proper suspension make this an accident waiting to happen.

If you have a chance to buy this car...

... DON'T!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 31st October, 2010

20th Feb 2023, 16:13

Best review summary ever! Anyways, I had a Clio living in the UK back in the day, was terrible also.

1995 Renault Clio Williams 2.0 16v

Summary:

Fast, secure and very aggressive looking

Faults:

Electric failure.

Spare parts.

No air conditioning.

Noisy when you are going 215.

General Comments:

This car is really quick and handles very well on turns. When you push your right foot to the floor you go really fast. Very comfortable, the seats and driving it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th March, 2001

21st Jul 2001, 12:37

Hi! I am 14 living in the UK... my cousin has just bought a Williams 1 and it is a VERY quick car... it isn't as tuned as most but it has got a 6000 quid sound system and alarm. It has recently been de-locked and re sprayed, all in all it is a quick and fun car.