Renaultsport Clio V6 | PH auction block

And while the five Turbos are still the most valuable Renault villains, with their rally association and supercar combat performance, it’s perhaps the Clio V6s that are still the most infamous. Because in the ’80s everyone went a little crazy with homologation specials, from 205 T16 to BX 4TC; a mid-engined 5 was a daring idea, although Renault was hardly the only one trying crazy things…

But by the end of the 1990s, no one but them was thinking of a huge V6 with a rear seat that would fit into a supermini, and that made the Clio an instant classic. The 1998 concepts were beloved, the Trophy racing series was a hit, and when a production car was announced in 2000, demand vastly exceeded supply.

As a Phase 1 V6, one of the cars that TWR builds by hand in Sweden, this Clio already stands out. Only 256 RHD examples were produced, and certainly much less now given the spirited driving. Only 55,000 kilometers have been driven in 23 years of driving. And yes, the color scheme – but it is there for a reason, because this Clio V6 contains a large number of parts from the Trophy racer, a fitting tribute to one of the largest brand series that has ever existed. In fact, what better way to promote a new Clio – and replace the Sport Spider range – than with a grid of mid-engine V6s? (It’s also a shawl, so you can take it off if you really want to…)

While all road cars clearly shared an engine with the racer, plus a front stabilizer bar, this evocation goes much further. So it has the wheels and spoiler of the car from motorsport, plus a clever front splitter. The suspension now consists of KW V3 coilovers, which should tame some of the standard car’s wayward tendencies – it will also help with the fantastic stance. The inside is a full-road racer too, with bucket seats, a Sparco wheel, a fire extinguisher and harnesses. It has all the makings of an absolutely wicked little track car.

In addition, every Clio V6 naturally provides a driving experience on the road like no other. The sound, the layout and the dimensions are so barmy that it is truly a car that is unparalleled. One that started life as a Renault Clio. Even with the arrival of a spiritual (much more expensive) successor in the form of the Turbo 3E, the Clio V6’s reputation means its legendary status is forever assured. This is a rare opportunity to get one with a good history, lots of money spent on upgrades and a new MOT for whoever wins the auction. Maybe wait until the warmer months to really see what a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive Renault is all about…