Rover 100 Hatchback 1.4 GTa 3d (1998/S) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
As with all Rovers, excellent value for money, will always be underrated and undervalued.
Costs
Most engine components are compatible with some of MG-Rover's more modern offerings, so price of components is average at best, however, a trip to the local scrap yard will most likely supply you with everything you will need to keep your 100 on the road.
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On the road
Driving
Steering is sharp, accurate and responsive very good for a car with underpinnings dating back to the 1980s.
Performance
1.4 8V is lightweight and nippy. High revs are needed to extract the best from it, but the power is in reserve should you need it to get out of a sticky situation. 0-60 is quoted at a respectable 10.8 seconds.
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Living with it
Reliability
K-Series engine in 1.4 8V form is simpler than 16V units. Possibility for head gasket failure at high mileages, but not as prone as 16Vs a cheap and easy fix if caught early (oil in coolant tank, etc).
Image
Fashion victims will hate it, but no one buys a small car to impress in the first place.
Comfort
Seats are surprisingly comfortable for such a small car. Lack of an adjustable steering column ruins the party however. Peugeot-sourced gearbox can be awkward at the best of times.
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Security and Service
Security
Very old tech, even for a 1998 car. GTa comes with Alarm/Immobiliser, but as with all cars from its time, locking system is archaic and experienced car thieves will have no problem stealing them Joyrider's favourite.
Service
N/A.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Auxiliary belt replaced at 60,000 miles, very cheap fix.
Other
Central locking motors fail after a short period of use, aftermarket lock purchased and fitted with no problem.
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