Renault Clio (1998 - 2001) 1.2 Grande 5d (98) (1998/S) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Would you buy this car again and why?
I would buy this car again, as I'm generally quite pleased with it - however, it would have to be the 1.4 or 1.6-litre engine, as they're a little more powerful (that's just preference, though; I learned to drive in a powerful car!).
What are you likely to buy next?
Hopefully either a slightly newer (MkII, PhII) 1.6 Clio or a 2014/13 Vauxhall Corsa 1.4.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£850
When did you buy the car?
June 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
I believe I did get a good deal - even though there were a few problems, these were pretty much obvious from the start, so we had no nasty surprises.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I wanted something cheap for my first car.
What was the dealer like?
The dealer was friendly and informative.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Powerful when it needs to be, and mellow when I need it to be. The steering is light and precise, and - although the pedals could do with a little greasing - it drives perfectly.
What's it like to park?
Fairly easy, although the turning circle leaves a little to be desired.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
The brakes kept locking on to the rear-left wheel, and a new set of brakes was needed about a month after I bought it. Also, the MoT was failed about 3 months after purchasing it due to a collapsed front-right suspension coil. Also, the sunroof leaks/rattles, and the fuel economy isn't great - even when constantly changing at 2,000 rpm and doing a lot of sub-urban driving, I still only manage about 300 miles to a tank.
What's most practical about your car?
It's always okay to drive in any condition - it's never failed to start due to the weather!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Not sure, really - the car didn't come with any frills; it's just a car!
