1 and 3's better than 2's!?

[Rudders16v]

I've been having a think about this, and although i've only just bought a Williams 2, i think the 2's are just for people who want a cheap Williams (in the main anyway, maybe not EVERYONE!).
I've based this on the original Williams being the "original", ie, it was the first edition, and the one which started the great reputation, so thats gotta be a good one to have. But if you wanted a newer Williams, and one with more electic gadgets, you would buy a Williams 3 because of the sunroof.

So, why would anyone want a 2, unless thats all they could afford!? Unless of course it was an outstandingly mint low mileage example or something

This could be interesting............ or i could just get a rather big slating!

[KingStromba]

Williams 1 (the homologation special). Only one with a plaque so the most sought after. Phase 1.

Williams 2 - A copy of the 1 (advantage no sun roof). Not a homologation special. Phase 2.

Williams 3 - Different colour. Disadvantage of a sun roof. But newer. Not a homologation special. Phase 2.


Depends what floats your boat. A good example of any will be sought after, but i think everyone would agree the first series is the best to own, if not just for the plaque.

[Swervin_Mervin]

Cue flame session! :P Good luck mate, have you got any flame retardant suits or owt? :D

[GazTwo]

Probably a slating....lol...to be honest I wanted a Williams 3 when I started looking cause of the shiny colour and sunroof but like u said I found a mint low mileage Williams 2 and am well chuffed with it. I wouldn't say a Williams 2 is a cheaper option there all the same price pending condition.

There all the same to me I don't believe the Williams 1 with the plaque is the original they all fetch the same price, plus with a Williams 2 u get the different interior and exterior changes from the Williams 1, no leaking sunroof from the Williams 3 and ABS is for GIRLS!!!

My opinion is a Williams is a Williams not matter which number, as long as u find the best one u can.

[Daz]

2's because..
Phase2, No Sunroof, No ABS.

No sunroof means no leaks or rattles.. although, I do like the light they give.. oh, and you don't get creases in roof like you do with a sunroof.

3's drive better I think, 1's are originals. My 3 drove great.


Personally, If I had a 1, I'd change it all to Phase2.

Oh, and I've had a 3.. now got a 2.. so I know what it's like to own both..
At the end of the day, you get whichever is mintest.
If I didn't have my 2 and wanted a real mint Williams and a 1 came along.. I'd get it.. no questions. It just so happens an original 2 came along, no paint, and I got it.. Heh.

[Swervin_Mervin]

FWIW if I was to get one I'd only ever have a 1, 'cos I don't like the phase 2 bits.

[Enid]

I'd always look for a 1 first as that like Stromba said is a homologation special and the plaque adds a little kudos imo. Failing that I would consider a 2 if it was in good condition. Not really intersted in a 3, its not even the right colour

[northy]

For me i wanted the 3 as it was newer and therefore in better condition.
But im suprised my 9year old car has rusted so much as it has.

If was buying another it would be a Williams 1. But again...i would buy any if it was original, rust free and low mileage.

[NickFr]

Recent extract from PRATICAL PERFORMANCE CAR " By the time the williams 3 was around most of these comforts had quietly crept onboard, fuelled by consumer expectation YET detracting from the whole point of the car!! Now before all the 3 owners start yelling this was written by a Journalist who used a williams 3 to write this article. The French also try this elitist attitude with the numbered plaque, however what is quite clear is this isn't reflected in the price, indeed the major deciding factor will always be CONDITION v COST unless you happen to own 0002 or similar, where prehaps there is some perceived " extra value ". Reno's own GREED put pay to any real opportunity for investment hunters. As I mentioned earlier the French and to be fair it is a French car make no distinction, they don't even have number 2 or 3 on their cars!!

[Irish Nut]

I went for the 1, cos i wanted the original with the plaque and i prefer the phase 1 look. :D