REBUILD & RESTORATION
Introduction
The Clio RSR Project has undergone a complete mechanical and aesthetic renewal through a structured, multi‑phase restoration program. Between 2024 and 2026, the car received two major mechanical rebuilds and a full interior/exterior refurbishment, resulting in a machine that is mechanically renewed, proven in real‑world use, and aesthetically presented to a modern Clubsport standard.
This page documents the full restoration process.
Phase 1 — Major Service & Partial Restoration (April 2024 — ~€7,000)
The first stage of the restoration addressed all critical wear points after years of track use. This phase focused on the top end of the engine, chassis components, fuel system, braking system, and key peripherals.
Work Completed
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Full cylinder head rebuild
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New valve springs
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New followers
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New OEM engine mounts
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Öhlins R&T service
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New clutch
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Silicone coolant hoses
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New fuel lines and fittings
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Genuine Renault Sport aerospace‑type fuel rail
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Complete brake caliper service + refinishing
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New front suspension links
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CAE shifter + new cables
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New throttle body
Outcome
This phase restored reliability, responsiveness and structural integrity, preparing the car for the full engine rebuild that followed later in the year.
Phase 2 — Full Engine Block Rebuild (December 2024 → 2025)
The second stage was a complete bottom‑end rebuild, bringing the powertrain back to factory‑fresh mechanical condition with upgraded motorsport‑grade components.
Work Completed
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Full engine block rebuild
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New King Racing bearings
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ARP 2000 rod bolts
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Complete reassembly with correct tolerances
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Full break‑in procedure
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New remap after break‑in
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Ancillary work:
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Lambda sensors
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Injector cleaning
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Seals, gaskets, hardware
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General service items as required
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Outcome
The engine has now accumulated approximately 10,000 km of post‑rebuild operation with zero oil consumption across two 5,000 km service intervals, confirming correct tolerances, stable operation and long‑term reliability.
Phase 3 — Aesthetic & Functional Restoration (Late 2024 → 2026)
Following the mechanical restoration, the car received a complete interior, exterior and functional upgrade to bring it to a modern Clubsport specification.
Work Completed
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Wireless Android Auto / Apple CarPlay display
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Reverse camera
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TPMS
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Torque Pro integration
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Ambient lighting
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Alcantara headliner
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Skyrich lithium battery
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Full cabin sound deadening & thermal insulation (Dynamat)
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Full respray (November 2025)
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Paint correction, detailing & ceramic coating (April 2026)
Outcome
The car’s cabin, electronics and exterior presentation were fully modernized. From this point onward, the vehicle has required only routine bolt‑on maintenance.
Final Result — Today
The Clio RSR Project stands as a fully renewed Clubsport machine:
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Mechanically rebuilt through two major restoration phases
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Approximately 10,000 km of proven post‑rebuild reliability
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Zero oil consumption across two service cycles
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Modernized interior and electronics
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Fully refinished exterior with ceramic protection
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Structurally, mechanically and aesthetically restored
A complete, mature, and meticulously renewed RSR build —
ready for road, track, export or collection.
