Classic Car Encyclopedia

Renault Clio Williams

Apr 20, 2023

The Renault Clio Williams is a car that needs no introduction to automotive enthusiasts. It is a car that has been praised for its combination of performance and practicality, and its legacy continues to this day.

Named after the Williams F1 team, the Renault Clio Williams was first introduced in 1993. It was a limited edition version of the Renault Clio 16v, which was already a popular hot hatchback. However, the Clio Williams took things up a notch.

Under the hood, the Clio Williams was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produced 148 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque. This might not sound like a lot of power by today's standards, but back in 1993, it was enough to make the Clio Williams one of the fastest hot hatchbacks on the market. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which gave the car a sporty feel. It has a curb weight of around 1,020 kg (2,249 lbs). This relatively low weight, combined with the car's sporty suspension and powerful engine, makes it a joy to drive.

The exterior of the Clio Williams was also sportier than the standard Clio. It had wider fenders, a more aggressive front bumper, and a rear spoiler. The car was also lowered and had stiffer suspension, which improved handling and made it more fun to drive.

Inside, the Clio Williams had sport seats and a sport steering wheel. The car was also equipped with air conditioning, which was a rare feature in hot hatchbacks at the time.

The Renault Clio Williams was a huge success for the company. It was praised by automotive journalists for its performance and handling, and it quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts. Renault produced a total of 12,100 units, and they were all sold out within a year.

Today, the Renault Clio Williams is considered a classic car, and it is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its combination of performance, practicality, and style make it a timeless classic that will always be remembered.