Make sure you try out an example that has been well looked after. I have flown a 177rg with a poor maintenance record only once and promised myself never to get in the thing again.
We had issues with the govenor at start up which almost made us bin the whole flight, and then repeading issues with the gear, so I was fairly happy to park it back at the ramp with no further dents after a short flight.
I was however impressed with the space inside and the convinience of two big doors. Cruise performance in pretty good for the rg, although I found it a little unstable in turbulence (first ever high wing experience).
They have a loyla folowing, which makes me thing that the example I flew was particulary taddy, so make sure you try one in good nick.
Lots of info here
Cardinal Flyers Online LLC Home Page
On planecheck, there are a few for sale in France. You might convince one of the owners to let you have a test flight if you are seriously considering to buy one (not sure if that is you mission)