Rover 200 Coupe 1.8 VVC 2d (1999/S) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
I bought it second-hand for my missus. I paid slightly over the odds for a VERY late and totally immaculate model. She's worth it though, and so is the car!
Costs
As with my own car, I do most of the servicing. Parts aren't too bad at all. Cambelt(s) change was pretty cheap and done very quickly by dealer. Not much thirstier than my 1.6!
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On the road
Driving
FWD was a bad choice, but that was a limitation of the R8 platform. Needs lowering, stiffening, poly bushes and strutbraces, front and rear. Generally great drive though - just short of true sportscar territory.
Performance
Silly fast for a 1.8l. Somewhat modified, but 0-60 in 7.1s and all the way up to 150mph without blinking. Not on the public highway though, kids.
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Living with it
Reliability
Thick end of 50k miles and not a single problem. Pre-emtive maintainence is a must with the K-Series, though. Who are these people who drive with no coolant and complain about overheating anyway?
Image
Confused. BMW owners seem to hate it, boy racers fear it, modders and people who like an attainable sportscar love it.
Comfort
Full cream leather. The Mk3 interior may not be the most modern, but the seats are very adjustable and extremely supportive. Instruments very clear. Surprising boot load. Tiny rear seats, but it's a 2+2, folks - that's the deal.
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Security and Service
Security
Original? Unknown. Bought from first owner with Thatcham Cat-1 system with total closure, anti-hijack, etc. If the original is the same as the Mk3, then it's just fine.
Service
It's only been in for cambelts (there's two in the VVC) and the waterpump/coolant which was done at the same time. The Rover garage (not sure I can name them here), were outstanding. I know this isn't always the case, sadly.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Not a sausage, but oil needs changing before schedule as the VVC mech can get noisy.
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes