Rover Mini 1988-

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Buy carefully from private seller. Specialists ask WAY too much money.

    Costs

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Brilliant economy (ignore the wildly inaccurate fuel gauge). Cheap bits. Can be serviced by your granny.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Taken for what it is, it's fantastic. If you're expecting it to match a Focus, you'll be disappointed. Good learner car actually, as it's very simple to get used to.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Surprisingly fast up to 40mph (it is very light) and will cruise at 85 all day if fitted with RC40 back exhaust box to get rid of the infamous resonance at high speed.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can't fault it, but you MUST keep on top of everything and they do require a lot more 'adjusting' than a modern car. Definately not a fit and forget car.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    With a nice set of proper alloys (nothing too big), it will get some favourable comments.

    Comfort

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Not bad with the big seats fitted from '93 onwards, but limited legroom. Ok in back for kids (and adults on short trips). Small boot limits visability as a tourer.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Standard locks and keys doors. Petrol and ignition a pain. Just get a decent immobiliser and try not to worry. Locking wheelnuts are a must-have.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Find a friendly Rover parts man and you're sorted, but tech help from dealer is non-existent. Most of them haven't heard of the old Mini!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    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