Rover 200 Hatchback 216 SLi 5d Auto (1998/R) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Economy
Value
Looking through the papers, I see depreciation just a little lower than Ford's. This has more to do with reputation than anything else.
Costs
I do my own maintainence. It costs me very little in parts.
-
On the road
Driving
I've modified the running gear extensively, so this does not reflect the manufacturer's intent.
Performance
Sprightly. Fun gearbox, but not Earth-shattering for the average driver. Takes some getting used to and I can see that might put people off. Learning how to use it to the full gives startling results. Breathing mods unleash some (very) hidden horses.
-
Living with it
Reliability
Inlet manifold gasket went at 38k miles. I maintain my car well, so caught it in time. Some people don't and get head gasket failure - wonder how many HGFs are down to this? Can't fault the car for reliability if maintained. Regular fluid changes a must.
Image
Again, the car is modified. In standard trim it looks great, but a little to tall.
Comfort
Not really a motorway cruiser (especially when sitting on modified running gear), but I managed 400 miles in a day without ending up in traction. That has to be a good thing.
-
Security and Service
Security
ECU-linked immobiliser. It's never gone for a drive with a stranger. Of course a window could be broken, but what car's can't?
Service
It's a lottery, but as with any manufacturer, when you find a good dealer, you stick with them.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Inlet manifold gasket.
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes