Renault Clio (1998 - 2001) 1.2 RN 5d (1998/S) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Pretty average guy I guess who likes French cars? Sensible buyer with not much cash to flash. Not going to set the world on fire, but could do very much worse.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all like it, (I think). Girlfriend and daughter have plenty space for their mountain of gear. Child seat fits well too.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes I would buy one again. Very good comfy seats. I'm a biggish guy but don't get any backache etc on long journeys. Good fuel economy - up to 50mpg. Very reliable so far for an 11 year old car.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'd like to try a newer Clio when I've got the funds or when this one goes wrong beyond repair. Until then I'll hang on to it and enjoy it.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£650

When did you buy the car?

June 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, I think I did get a good deal. I paid £650 cash from a mechanic who had done all necessary work and servicing to the car. It had a full MOT, 6 months tax, new brakes and tyres all round, new exhaust and timing belt. All I've done is change the oil and coolant.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was in very good condition and for private sale locally with full MOT and lots of work already done. Cheap for me to insure and tax.

What was the dealer like?

Bought privately from a local mechanic.

What's it like to drive?

For a 1.2, very responsive and can handle overtaking with relative ease. There's only me in it 99% of the time so obviously this helps. Handling good at roundabouts at ambitious speeds and twisty bits with little understeer. Not much power below 3000 revs but adequate for 60HP. Handy power steering for parking, well weighted. Effortless to drive, pedals and steering not overly light with good feel. Will happily zip along at 70 without excessive noise.

What's it like to park?

I find it easy to park. Good visibility all round. Nice vision through side and rear windows.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not so far, touch wood. The only thing is that the central locking has become a bit temperamental lately. I'm not sure if it's the battery in the fob needing changing or the sensor in the car itself. Will look into it. Nothing else though.

What's most practical about your car?

Having 5 doors enables easier access. Decent sized boot. Can fit the pushchair in easily.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sunroof is tilt only, but handy and doesn't rain in on the move with it open. It's manual and so are the windows but that means there's less to go potentially wrong. Fine by me.