The 2007 Renaultsport Clio 197
Why It's Special:
In the ever popular hot-hatch segment, Renault’s latest offering hopes to significantly raise the performance bar while maintaining both usability and value, long associated with hatchbacks. Also, this car is free for Forza 2 on Xbox Live Marketplace!
Under the Hood:
To accomplish this, Renaultsport revised the already critically acclaimed Clio chassis in several key ways. First the wheelbase was increased by widening the front and rear track by 10 mm. This gives the Clio 197 a platform with more stability and road-holding potential.
By far the biggest complaint in front-wheel drive hot hatches is the annoying and sometimes dangerous torque steer. To overcome this, the 197’s front suspension features an innovative double-axis strut system, where the steering is completely independent of the dampers. This design virtually eliminates torque steer and leaves the driver in complete control.
Out back the torsion bar has been stiffened by 25% to compliment the more capable chassis and front suspension. After winning Formula 1 World Championships in 2005 and 2006, Renault demonstrated that they know a thing or two about aerodynamics. This knowledge has trickled down to the 197 and given it segment leading aerodynamics.
The front bumper features both air extractor vents and a semi-rigid splitter. By routing high pressure air from the front of the car through the engine bay and out along the sides of the car you accomplish two things. First you reduce the temperature of vital under-hood components and secondly you reduce drag.
The rear bumper features a massive diffuser and together with the front splitter provides over 40 kg of downforce, a segment first. All of these aerodynamic tweaks add up to highly efficient design that takes maximizes every one of the 197 horsepower found under the hood. Delivering this power is a 2.0 liter DOHC Inline 4-cylinder that eagerly spins to its 7500 rpm limit.
The Verdict:
Featuring continuously-variable valve timing and a very hot 11.5:1 compression ratio this unit is one of the very best naturally aspirated engines on the market today. Completing the drivetrain is a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission. 17-inch alloy wheels, Brembo brakes and sticky Continental Sport Contact tires complete the package. With available Recaro bucket seats, HID xenon lights, Speedline alloy wheels and a small price tag the Clio Renaultsport 197 is not only a benchmark hot-hatch, but one of the best performance bargains on the road today.
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