1994 Renault Clio 16v review from UK and Ireland

The diff blew after 2 days of owning the car, and then 2 weeks after it was repaired the gearbox popped. Probably because I was driving a Nissan previously, and took everyone's advice about weak drive trains a little lightly, unlike the repair bill - £375 for a fitted diff, £480 for a fitted box. When the box was replaced, I was told that the nearside driveshaft would also need replacing soon, £180 fitted.

My near side electric window is also playing up. I think it's the switch because when it's pressed up you can hear the motor, but down there is nothing.

So if you want one like I did, then please don't do what I did and ignore advice about weak boxes. It will cost both arms and a leg.

Drivability is superb. The car makes me grin ear to ear every time I go flatout. I owned a Nissan Primera 2.0 eZX, and in a straight line the Primera was slightly quicker, but come to a corner and the Clio has no problems catching up.

The handling takes my, and any first time passenger's, breath away. It's one of the main reasons for purchasing the car, the other is its looks, it looks harder than week old leftovers, but no so much that it looks out of place on normal roads.

I've fitted Spax lowered suspension, 17" super t`s, K&N induction kit, a power-boost valve and a Mongoose exhaust system. But until the car is Superchipped, I'm leaving any more mods on hold.

I find the interior comfy, the front seats hold you firmly in place. The rear is a little cramped for anyone over 6 ft, but it is a small car. I love the dash, it feels like you're flying a plane with all the gauges, even though there is a bit of plastic squeaking somewhere that I can't get to.