After the Zed

[daveparkin]

Now my 350 has sold, I'm properly on the lookout for a replacement.

 

As I said when I sold it, I'm looking for some cheaper fun, and something a little more practical so that I will use it more for day-to-day stuff.

 

Started out looking at RS Clio 182's like I used to have, but a lot are tired now and I think they might be a little too small to make them any more practical in reality.

 

Have now settled on a Megane 230 R26 - lots of fun and bigger than the Clio - anybody know much about them and anything specific to look for?

 

Cheers,

 

Dave

[mc]

I can only comment on general megane problems

- water ingress through front speakers (wet door pocket or underfloor storage)

- electric windows play up (water again)

- door lock buttons can be temperamental

- airbag light on could mean clock spring on steering column has broken

 

generally dodgy electrics in Renaults

[richmillions]

I had one, stage 1 remap is highly recommended.

Window motors have been know to fail, check belts are done as this can be expensive. Meganesport is a good source of information

[daveparkin]

Thanks for the feedback chaps

[Dblock]

I had a 172. I'm not sure which one the 230 is ie the newer one is it? But I know they are thirsty but can make good power after simple mods.

[daveparkin]

The 230 is the R26 and the R26.R - I think the extra 5hp is only down to a slightly different exhaust and some mapping changes. The attraction of the R26 is that it has a mechanical slippy diff in it and better brakes.

Edited September 16, 2013 by daveparkin

[mjonathan24]

I currently have an r26 F1 in Liquid yellow, fantastic cars. Things to look out for, cam belt ( every 5 years or 40k) Renault wanted £1200 to change it. Specialists will do it for between £500 and £600.

Engine mounts- They sag, try a bit of wheel spin if the wheels judder then they probably need changing.

As most people have said, electric windows.

The dash board can make a squeaky noise- spraying silicone sorts this out though.

 

Lots better than the clio 182, which I have also had.

Ironically I am considering going back to a 350z but am a bit worried that they are not as quick or as fun to drive.... It's been a good 4 years since I've driven a zed but I've had 3 of them and driven at least 30 for a few weeks each.

 

Once you've got your r26 let me know what your thoughts are!

[greg tl]

Do yourself a massive favour and don't buy a Renault. Just because you are scrimping on price, you don't have to scrimp on quality.

 

Get something Japanese as a Clio will disintegrate and cost a fortune in the little bits going wrong that will add up.

 

Maybe a civic type r that can take all sorts of abuse and return decent mpg for a daily driver. You can pick one of these up now for between 2 to 2.5k.

 

Just a suggestion!