Rover 100 Hatchback (1994 - 1999) 1.1i Knightsbridge SE 5d (1996/N) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I would say it says that i take pride in what i drive and how i enjoy a sporty ride. I am the envy of all my friends and the beauty of this car is that it looks at home parked next to any car whether it be an Aston Martin or a VW Golf.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They generally enjoy the experience however I think they envy the performance.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, although I think next time i would look for a smaller engine in order to cut costs. Also, i do not need the high performance output that the 1.1 produces.

What are you likely to buy next?

A Jaguar XJ220 had crossed my mind. I have a test drive later. Although i do not think anything can replace my beloved 100. Also, the build quality on the XJ is simply not as high.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£15,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I would say that value for money this car is stunning. Features many different features as standard that are not featured on cars of similar money (for example the Audi A3.) A Sunroof for one and 3 spoke sports steering wheel. All big deal breakers for once. Overall the deal was very good. I paid £15,000 instead of the £18,000 that it was up for. Bargain!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I decided that for the price it was better than the competition. I prefer the styling to that of the BMW 1 Series and the Audi A3. I would say that the main reason was due to recommendation from a friend.

What was the dealer like?

Fat, Bald, Ugly, Old...Should work at Volvo. Although, he did have a comprehensive knowledge of the car and its features.

What's it like to drive?

Very sporty indeed. I enjoy frequent tussles with high powered cars without embarrassment. The handling is tight and the engine responsive. The slightest squeeze of the right pedal produces a surge of power similar to that experienced on take off in a plane. I feel that this is due to the clever gearing of the car. My only disappointment with the driving experience is that I have yet to find a road long enough to reach max speed...I believe that the car has alot more to give. Also, i believe the lack of power steering was deliberate on the part of rover in order to make man and machine feel more connected and in unison thus adding to the sporty nature of the car.

What's it like to park?

Not that easy really. I feel very nervous at the time of parking as i do not want to damage such an expensive car. I have been known to have my car valet parked where possible to avoid unwanted prangs.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The handbrake light has a tendancy to flash at certain points. At first i thought this was a shift light due to the sporty nature of the car. I have not fixed this as i find it a querky part of the cars personality.

What's most practical about your car?

I would say that inside it is very spacious. And the seats are very padded making them exceedingly comfy. The fact that there is adjustment is a very useful feature.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The central locking and alarm. This has proved invaluable as it has scared numerous opportunists away. I do not know what draws them to my beloved car however it seems to be more desirable than i thought. I should have got a 1 series after all.