Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy-R
The Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy-R is one of the most extreme front-wheel-drive production cars ever built. Created by Renault Sport with a single-minded focus on lap time performance, the Trophy-R stripped the standard Megane RS of all unnecessary weight and added track-focused components to create a car that set the Nurburgring Nordschleife front-wheel-drive lap record at 7 minutes 54.36 seconds in 2014.
The Trophy-R was based on the Megane III RS but underwent a comprehensive transformation at Renault Sport's facility in Dieppe. The rear seats were removed entirely, replaced by a cross-brace for additional chassis rigidity. The air conditioning was deleted. The standard exhaust was replaced by a titanium Akrapovic system saving 10 kilograms. Lightweight lithium-ion battery saved additional weight. Total weight reduction amounted to approximately 100 kilograms compared to the standard RS, bringing the curb weight to 1,297 kilograms.
The engine was the familiar Renault Sport F4Rt 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 275 horsepower and 365 Nm of torque. This was the same power output as the standard 275 Trophy, but the reduced weight significantly improved the power-to-weight ratio. The engine featured variable valve timing, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and direct injection, providing strong, linear power delivery from 3,000 rpm to the 6,500 rpm redline.
The chassis modifications were the Trophy-R's most significant upgrades. Ohlins Road & Track adjustable dampers replaced the standard items, allowing owners to fine-tune the suspension for different circuits. The dampers were specifically valved by Renault Sport for the Trophy-R's weight and performance envelope. A front limited-slip differential from the Cup chassis helped manage the considerable torque through the front wheels.
Brembo four-piston front calipers with 340mm ventilated discs provided exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. The braking system was developed to cope with repeated hard use on track, where the Trophy-R was expected to spend much of its life. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, specifically developed for the Trophy-R, provided enormous grip levels.
Limited to just 250 units worldwide, the Trophy-R was not a car for the faint-hearted. With no rear seats, minimal sound insulation, and a rock-hard ride on anything other than billiard-smooth tarmac, it demanded commitment from its owner. But on a circuit, it was devastating, combining explosive acceleration, massive grip, powerful brakes, and the kind of chassis communication that only a lightweight, focused machine can provide.
The Nurburgring record cemented the Trophy-R's reputation as the ultimate front-wheel-drive performance car of its generation. It demonstrated that Renault Sport could compete with — and beat — the best in the world at creating focused driver's machines.
Verify serial number against Renault Sport production records. With only 250 built, provenance is important. Check for track use damage — many were used extensively on circuits. Ohlins dampers should be serviced regularly. Akrapovic exhaust should be intact (very expensive to replace). Check front limited-slip differential for wear. Brembo brake components are expensive. Unmodified examples are most desirable.
Limited to 250 units worldwide. Assembled at Renault Sport's facility in Dieppe. Each car individually numbered. Nurburgring FWD lap record holder at 7:54.36 (2014). Rear seats, A/C, and sound insulation removed for weight saving.