Renault Clio Williams

vs

Renault Clio V6

France vs France — 1994 vs 2001

Renault Clio Williams (1994)
Renault Clio V6 (2001)
Specifications
Clio WilliamsClio V6 Phase 1
Horsepower150 hp230 hp
Torque129 lb-ft221 lb-ft
Engine Size1,998 cc2,946 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec6.4 sec
Top Speed134 mph146 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec14.8 sec
Weight2,943 lbs
Wheelbase2,472 mm2,430 mm
Length3,710 mm3,810 mm
Units Produced12,1001,513
Value (Excellent)$45,000$100,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity7/108/10
The Verdict

The 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1994 Renault Clio Williams counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Renault Clio Williams from 1994 to 2001 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Renault. The 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 230 hp compared to 150 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault Clio Williams uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 1,998 cc, while the Renault Clio V6 relies on a V6 DOHC 24V with 2,946 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,513 units built, the 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 is considerably scarcer than the Renault Clio Williams's 12,100 examples. On the collector market, the 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 commands a significant premium over the 1994 Renault Clio Williams, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2001 Renault Clio V6 Phase 1 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.