1996 Renault Clio RSi from UK and Ireland - Comments

Some small aerodynamic problems with the sunroof. The seat wings have collapsed, but that could be because the previous owner was rather large (I speculate).

Other than that there haven’t been any other problems that have been the fault of the car. I say this because a young lady ploughed into my rear end at some traffic lights just days after a "boy racer" reversed into the side in a car park. Not to worry, the respective insurance companies are forking out the £900 and £1300 (respectively) claims. It has worked in my advantage in-fact, because I have convinced my repair garage to fit a Scorpion exhaust system instead of the standard mild-steel Renault system. NICE.. I hope… It's due back next week.

Rear brakes seem a little absent despite the fact that they are discs.

There is a tendency to understeer on fast corners (a trait of this type of car, so all is forgiven).

Pipercross induction kit produces a WONDERFUL note!

2nd gear is very responsive:) and considering the car you are getting the insurance is very acceptable... I'm 21 and I pay 770 fully comp. You do need to shop around, most quotes were £1600-£1800.

The seats are nice and I have to disagree with a previous review about the leg room and drivers space since I am 6'4" and fit quite nicely!

I also have a 1996 Clio RSi so I've just got to say, 'great choice'. I personally feel that the brakes are superb on mine, though. The engine is good too, but the cars handling constantly surprises me and I think this is the cars best point.

Alright I have just bought a 95 Clio RSi and need insurance. WHich company are you with for a quote of 700 pounds I'm 21 also and the car is garaged!cheers.

I got the insurance through the RAC... but this year it was £570!!! :)

I bought a '95 RSI in August 2002. I know what you mean about the rear brakes, mine are a little more than absent!!

Just a quick question... your induction kit, did you declare it to the insurance co, if so did it make a difference?

Nope... so I don't know.

I have a 1996 1.2 Clio. I've recently noticed a loud vibration/humming noise when I'm driving in 4th gear. It disappears again when I accelerate up to 5th gear. The car sounds fine on the motorway at around 70 mph. What would cause this noise at lower speeds? Is it just the sage of the car (7 years, 78000 miles)?

Please advise if you can. Car passed it's MOT at start of June 2003.

A word on modifications and the unpleasant topic of insurance. Your insurance company will need to know of any mod whatever it is, such as brakes, induction kits or alloy wheels.

Failure to do so may invalidate you policy and you're then probably driving without insurance which the law takes very very seriously. Read your local paper for court cases and the large fines metered out.

Hi, I own a 94/95 RSi and love it, I've just recently done the exhaust on it and given it a full service and it runs a treat. I did all discs and pads all round, I can't fault the brakes, but I do think the back could be used a little more. Some sort of weight sensor on the back axel that might be tweak-able to apply the rear brake a little more.

The steering and handling is next on the list of things to do, it doesn't inspire confidence at high speed.

Anyway for a great website dedicated to everything Clio go to www.clubclio.co.uk it's a great forum with loads of helpful info and friendly people too, none of the nastiness like some other forums.

Cheers for reading my review. Studorspud.