I've owned a couple. Bit of a Renaultsport fan and still have a V6.
Compared with the HONDA, it's a bit more refined (With plastic of course) It's quiet and comfy. Horrific driving position, but compared to the recaro's that understandbale. Handling wise, very capable, tuning wise, huge options but 200 is the limit without forced induction. Servicing is cheap with a number of Indi's now on the market. No need to go for renno.
Problems:
Sensors onto the Plenum,
Drive shafts
Circlips onto the box
Air bag sensor under the seats
Exhausts are made of chocolate
Engine mounts go soft and the manifold touches the subframe
Shockers burst
With an aging car like the 172, you're going to get wear and tear issues. My first one sold at 35k and the second i bought as a gap car with 53k on the clock for a few months.
They are great wee cars overall. check out cliosport.net "mostly" helpful and a bit community.
Pics of both mine.
AR
172 - Flame Red. (192.6bhp, Coils, Big brakes)
172 - Iceberg Silver (stock)