In the automotive world, new models sway with their modern technologies and flashy designs, but for classic enthusiasts, it's the soul and character of a car that counts. Strangely enough, the Renault Clio, a model that you might not immediately label as 'classic', has exactly those timeless qualities that connoisseurs appreciate so much.
From subcompact to icon
When Renault introduced the Clio in 1990 as the successor to the Renault 5, no one could have predicted just how iconic this little Frenchie would become. Over the years, the Clio has done much more than just transform the city car market; it has become a car that has connected generations. The older models, especially the Renault Clio Williams and the Renault Clio V6, enjoy cult status and are now beginning to become sought-after objects for collectors and classic car enthusiasts.
No frills, that saves
What makes the Renault Clio so attractive to classic enthusiasts is its uncomplicated character. The simple lines, the lack of superfluous gadgets, and the pure driving experience make older Clio models a kind of 'honest' car. It's that authenticity that makes the Clio a likely candidate to become a recognized classic.
The magic of the simple
The Renault Clio had to be accessible yet high-quality, modest yet stylish. Many classic car enthusiasts can appreciate this, as they themselves seek the magic of simplicity and functionality in cars.
A place in the garage and in the heart
The older models of the Clio are starting to get a permanent place in the garages of classic and young timer enthusiasts. In addition to technical reliability, the Renault Clio has something indefinable, something enthusiasts often describe as 'soul'. It's that soul that not only gives the car a place alongside other classics, but also a special place in the hearts of their owners.
The future of the Renault Clio as a classic
With the arrival of the refreshed Renault Clio V, one might wonder how this modern incarnation fits into the Clio's rich heritage as a potential classic. One thing is certain, the original features that made the Clio so beloved are still there. But will it ever become a classic?
Photos: Renault SAS
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8 comments
My father always says that he realized he was getting older when cars whose introduction he could still remember became classics... Well, in 1990 I was 19 ;-). A few years later, a friend of mine had a Clio16V that was used as a fire brigade and another friend had a Super 5 Turbo from the last year of construction. They ran about the same speed (less weight vs. more power). I drove one myself Alfa Giulietta 2ltr from 84 (lower budget) but those were good times.
Thom
My father bought one in 1991 on the AutoRai. A red 1.4 three-door. I think it's an RN or an RL, the second barest version. I was in complete shock, because I don't think he had any intention of buying anything there. We went there to get our bearings. His AX 14 TZS was 2 years old and he wanted something different. The Clio was purchased without consulting my mother. And since I now spend Saturdays and holidays at the Citroëndealer worked as a salesman, that was quite a blow…. My idea was to sell him a facelifted AX.
Unfortunately, my father and the Clio seats were not a match, he always had back pain in that car.
After two years the Clio was retired again. This time for one Citroën ZX Aura 1.8. Bought from my employer, of course. He has the rest of his life Citroën driven.
Just good cars those Clios. Even the Clio I can still be seen on the highways. But the first years of construction are now rare.
Great as a city car, but it also does well on the main road. Stylish, fun and sporty something for everyone. And good quality too. No wonder the Clio continues to be popular and has always been one of the best-selling cars in Europe.
Timeless is something that Germans can learn a lot from. After 1 month already looking forward to the unimaginative. Fortunately, every now and then they employ a Frenchman, Italian or Dutchman…..
Nice cars! But I can't imagine it could be anything like the r4 or 5. Anonymous Appearance. Think 205, polo and all. It was a boring time.
Very nice that attention is paid to a car that is rather quickly forgotten, with many interesting versions. Still, for me, the first generation Twingo is a guaranteed future classic, of which you should actually collect the special editions now. The scrapyards are still full of (special) parts. Ideal for getting into the hobby.
First generation indeed beautiful, but still loses out to the facelift of the Peugeot 106, both driving and aesthetically.
The first generation always looks the best, the next generation(s) always become ugly monstrosities for some reason.
Same with the Twingo, Ford Ka, Opel Corsa etc… the first generation is always the most attractive
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My father always says that he realized he was getting older when cars whose introduction he could still remember became classics... Well, in 1990 I was 19 ;-). A few years later, a friend of mine had a Clio16V that was used as a fire brigade and another friend had a Super 5 Turbo from the last year of construction. They ran about the same speed (less weight vs. more power). I drove one myself Alfa Giulietta 2ltr from 84 (lower budget) but those were good times.
Thom
My father bought one in 1991 on the AutoRai. A red 1.4 three-door. I think it's an RN or an RL, the second barest version. I was in complete shock, because I don't think he had any intention of buying anything there. We went there to get our bearings. His AX 14 TZS was 2 years old and he wanted something different. The Clio was purchased without consulting my mother. And since I now spend Saturdays and holidays at the Citroëndealer worked as a salesman, that was quite a blow…. My idea was to sell him a facelifted AX.
Unfortunately, my father and the Clio seats were not a match, he always had back pain in that car.
After two years the Clio was retired again. This time for one Citroën ZX Aura 1.8. Bought from my employer, of course. He has the rest of his life Citroën driven.
Just good cars those Clios. Even the Clio I can still be seen on the highways. But the first years of construction are now rare.
Great as a city car, but it also does well on the main road. Stylish, fun and sporty something for everyone. And good quality too. No wonder the Clio continues to be popular and has always been one of the best-selling cars in Europe.
Timeless is something that Germans can learn a lot from. After 1 month already looking forward to the unimaginative. Fortunately, every now and then they employ a Frenchman, Italian or Dutchman…..
Nice cars! But I can't imagine it could be anything like the r4 or 5. Anonymous Appearance. Think 205, polo and all. It was a boring time.
Very nice that attention is paid to a car that is rather quickly forgotten, with many interesting versions. Still, for me, the first generation Twingo is a guaranteed future classic, of which you should actually collect the special editions now. The scrapyards are still full of (special) parts. Ideal for getting into the hobby.
First generation indeed beautiful, but still loses out to the facelift of the Peugeot 106, both driving and aesthetically.
The first generation always looks the best, the next generation(s) always become ugly monstrosities for some reason.
Same with the Twingo, Ford Ka, Opel Corsa etc… the first generation is always the most attractive