Rover 200 Hatchback 1989-
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Much less second hand than an lower spec Escort or similar.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Insurance fairly cheap. Average 35mpg or more. Fairly cheap spares.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not bad. Suspension rather soft with age. Understeer at moderate speed. Comfortable cruiser.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Better than you think. Good acceleration if revved beyond 4500rpm (redline at 6500rpm).

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    New clutch at 80k mils, otherwise no problems at all.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Looks its age. Looks 10x better with slightly lowered suspension, due to high ride height as standard.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Nice supportive seats. Good driving position and visibility all round. Quiet at anything under 4000rpm.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Alarm/immobiliser as standard. Slightly naff door locks. Lack of 'boy racer' image helps.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Solid as a rock.

    Other

    Big standard airbox is restrictive. K&N57i induction kit (£60) works wonders.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes