Rover 400 Saloon 414 SLi Cat 4d (1993/L) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Bargain bucket! Usually far better value than a similar age Ford or Vauxhall and IMO built better.
Costs
Parts aren't much more than for a Ford and most are easily fitted by yourself.
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On the road
Driving
Nice and easy to drive with PAS. Not the best suspension on bumps, but no worse than most other cars.
Performance
>100bhp from a 1.4! Don't be afraid to rev it high because that's where this engine shines. A few people have commented on how quick it is. Unbelievably, I used mine to tow a 950kg caravan and it coped very well - though a lot of cog swapping is needed.
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Living with it
Reliability
Weak points are head gasket failure/head warpage due to overheating. Also gearbox input-shaft bearings very weak - check for rumbling in neutral. Fine other than that.
Image
Nobody wants a Rover - I certainly didn't until this and now I'm converted. Just bought the TD version... :-)
Comfort
Big car comfort, but small engine costs. Fine over long distances. 1.4 is a little noisy as it is revving at about 3000rpm at 70mph. Electric windows etc add to the luxury.
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Security and Service
Security
The Rover badge is an effective deterrent! Never had anyone attempt to break in, but factory fitted alarm might scare them off.
Service
Did all servicing and repairs myself. Parts from Rover aren't cheap, but they're not needed as often as Ford bits for example!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Rover's K-series is underrated and provided you don't let it overheat (which will render it almost scrap), very reliable, economical and powerful.
Other
I sold mine about two years ago and regretted it ever since. I've just bought the TD version now on the same reg. Definitely one of the best cars I've ever owned - gearbox excepted - wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
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