dn2blue

Meg 3 obviously. Did you expect any less from this forum? 😂 I've owned a Focus ST and the Clio 3. Meg 3 is far superior handling than the Focus but less refined and less practical. Clio 3 is a very very well handling car and arguably more fun, but most require some work (namely gearbox), also is a tin can compared to the Meg 3.

+1 on renotech. Those guys won’t bullshit you.

Nice car. My 2c. Intercooler, not worth doing unless a track car. Exhaust, depends on whether you want sound or hp. Go downpipe (+tune) for hp. Cat back for sound. My idea of audio is exhaust sound so can't help with the stereo. But you can update the stock system to include android auto if you have the later style unit.

Try the map sensor thing mentioned above first. Does this have a modified exhaust? The 197 suffers badly with a flat spot around 2500rpm if the mid muffler is removed on the stock tune. A tune or a proper exhaust (akra!) can fix this though. unfortunately the Clio 3 gearbox is known to have weak synchros and most with a few Kay’s will have an issue. It can be fixed with new 3/4 synchros and may as well chuck an lsd in there while you’re at it 😬

Looks amazing mate! Notice much difference in the drive compared to the 197?

This is the one: https://www.wheelermotorsport.co.uk/product/clio-3rs-recaro-cs-lowering-kit Not 100% sure this will fit a 265 recaro.

If you want recaros in the C3 I would highly suggest sourcing a lowering frame at least for the drivers side. The stock seat height is like a barstool. The stock C3 recaro frames would be required to be removed to fit the lowered frame. That might fit recaros from the Megane.

Don't go the focus ST, that will just be another failed attempt. In comparison, a nice interior and seats (if you can get past the 100 buttons on the dash) but won't come close to the handling of the Meg 3.

Rear wheel bearings flogging out is another very common issue. Rear rotors are usually expensive since the bearing is pressed inside the brake rotor. It can be done much more economically as mentioned above.

Nice car! This must be an early phase 2 172. My old one was the same with no esp and speedo drive off the gearbox.

Very nice looking car. Check the front ball joints and steering tie rods. Both are known to flog out. Possibly brake rotors but that is usually felt under braking. Are you sure the wheels and tyres are balanced correctly?

As above, gearbox is probably the most common and expensive thing to fix. Next is check when the timing belts were replaced as that is also pricey to replace. Most other things are minor and easily fixed.

Renotech : http://renotech.com.au

If you're tall then you will definitely want the lowered set base (if recaro), it makes a world of difference. These cars are getting on a bit and some will require parts, but IMO once you do the car will last quite a while and be very enjoyable! My experience my be a little different to some others but I have found the car quite reliable and not super expensive to fix but that may be because I like to do most work myself. Two biggest things for these cars (any 197 or 200): 1. Timing belt change. If this hasn't been done within 4-5 years or 100K kms then budget 1000-1200 for replacement. 2. Gearbox crunching. Check all the gears go in and don't crunch. If it does then synchros most likely need replacing and it is expensive 2.5-3K job (with new clutch). Secondary things to look for: - Front strut tops flog out. No way to see if they are damaged without taking the cowl off unfortunately. Listen for clunking from the front. - Inner tie rods. Listen for clunking while turning, especially noticeable at low speed. - Lower ball joints. Similar symptoms to the strut tops. - Engine mounts (mostly lower dogbone and torque mount). The lower dogbone mount flogs out quick on these and if left will eventually split the exhaust manifold flexi joints. Torque mount can flog out and cause clunking under acceleration. Like others have said, they are very fun cars to drive which can give much more expensive cars a run for their money in the twisty stuff.

No, the 2014 Meg RS brembos are not the same as the 2008 Meg RS brembos. Not sure there is a difference between the R26 and normal RS brembos but I don't think so. What those differences are besides looking different I'm not sure. As said above, the 2008 Meg RS brembos are the same as the Clio 3 RS brembos, maybe you could find a pair of those.