Rover 600 (1993 - 2000) 620 ti 4d (1999/T) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

To most who've never heard of the Ti: Old man with a pipe and slippers. To me, and those who know what it is, someone who likes a quick car, but isn't into shouting about it with bling.

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

Several work colleagues think it's really smart, one even thought it was a Jag. The OH likes it to drive, but thinks it too big.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yeah, but as there's now only 500 left on the road that won't be easy. But this is a keeper.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mg zs.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£360

When did you buy the car?

February 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Wasn't bad, going cheap on eBay because of known alternator fault. Picked a new one up w 2 yr guarantee for £100. Seller did omit to mention the rad nipple for the turbo coolant hose return was broken though. Subsequently learned these are common breakages. Unfortunately means a new rad, but pretty straightforward to fit (unless you've got A/C, in which case you've got to separate rad and A/C "radiator", rusted nuts !!). He also didn't mention the barely functional driver's window, but that's a common weakness on this and the equivalent Accord and an easy fix. Just keep the glass guides well lubricated !!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Rover's T16. One of the most unheard of, and under-rated, engines out there. 197 horses, 174 ft/lb @ 2250 (carries through the rev range to 6000), so max torque just before the standard T25 spools into life. Doesn't always feel quick because there's no mid-range punch, you've had it all low down and it's there to the redline.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Fast when you want it to be, but also a relaxed Mway cruiser when you want it as well. Put your foot down and you will surprise the chavs/modern sports saloon/"hot" hatch brigade. It's still on standard suspension so does roll & understeer in corners, but the (standard fit) TorSen diff does help keep the power down.

What's it like to park?

Personally I find it pretty easy to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had it a year now and apart from the known faulty alternator at purchase, and the replacement rad, only other things have been "service items" (cambelt, oil, etc...).

What's most practical about your car?

Fuel economy. Won't get book figures, but I'm averaging 35 mpg, which for a 20 year old engine design, nigh on 200 horses, petrol turbo, is very respectable in my book.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

It's a 13 yr old Rover, it didn't come with gadget's and Rover's options/accessories were limited and over-priced when it was new. Good luck finding any OE ones, they're rare as hens teeth now, but have so far retrofitted rear spoiler, rear sunblind & boot mounted CD multichanger.