Rover 200 Hatchback (1989 - 1996) 218 D 5d (1994/M) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Probably not much to strangers.

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

Not much, but I didn't buy it to impress them. I bought it because the car impressed me.

Would you buy this car again and why?

If I could only find something newer that ticked as many boxes as that car, I would be a very happy man, but good ergonomics has too often given way to fashion.

What are you likely to buy next?

I already have a Skoda Octavia TDi. It is undeniably better in many respects, but the Rover still wins for comfort, and I'd love to transplant the sunroof and the digital clock...after more than 170,000 miles in it, it has proved to be a very satisfying experience. There is still heaps of life left in it, but my other half is sensitive to appearances, and thinks it is too old now. For cheap dependable motoring, it has to be hard to beat.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,500

When did you buy the car?

January 1996

Did you get a good deal and why?

A good deal? I saw, I bought, and that is unusual for me.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was a year old and almost half list price, and it had a sunroof.

What was the dealer like?

Motorhouse 2000 at Cannock, were efficient. I liked it for displaying keen prices, with no haggling in the equation.

What's it like to drive?

Driving is pleasant, if you don't mind that the engine isn't as quiet as newer diesels; all the controls are good at normal speeds. The steering is heavy, but see it as a work out without needing to pay gym fees.

What's it like to park?

The aformentioned steering is likely to put you off tight parallel parking situations, but fresh tyres makes a big difference.

Have you had any problems with the car?

At 160,000 miles, a brake caliper needed attention at the roadside. Other than that, the car has never let me down. Brakes, bushes and usual wear and tear service parts have been all that's been needed

What's most practical about your car?

Great package of interior space and comfort and modest exterior size, plus an instrument layout that I still enjoy resting my eyes on. I love the ability to deliver cool air at face level, while keeping the rest warm.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The sunroof; I'm an outdoors person at heart.