Rover Metro 1.4 16V GTi Cat 3d (1993/L) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Cost £3k for a 60k mile example back in 99, which was expensive for what you get.
Costs
Tyres about £70 each. Have had lots of problems with the cooling system which lead to HG failure, then total engine failure.
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On the road
Driving
The GTi has quite a mechanical feel to it, devoid of any modern driving aids. You have to think about everything you do, especially in the wet when the understeer and non-abs brakes remind you! This is purity, as any GTI should be.
Performance
The 1.4 16v (MPI) is frenetic enough, but after engine failure in went 1.8 16v from MGF.
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Living with it
Reliability
K16 H/Gt issues accounts for most Rover engine problems. Cooling in Metro not helped by exhaust manifold being so close to rad. The GTI is 10+ years old now, so suspension pivots and ALL bushes will need doing.
Image
GTI is a street sleeper. Attracts no attention like Saxos etc, and shames ""proper"" cars. Puts a smile on you face every time you fly past a BMW etc!!
Comfort
Panels are thin with little soundproofing. Hydrogas limits the ride comfort, but replace the Rover dampers with Bilstein items for a big improvement. GTI seats are same as in the 200 GTI models so are actually really nice.
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Security and Service
Security
Std Rover remote central locking alarm and immobiliser. Aftermarket Cat2 immobiliser for insurance purposes. No actual break-ins however d/s door lock has been screwdrivered...
Service
Rover is overpriced, mechanics are no good - so I taught myself to fix the car!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
H/Gasket failure, crankshaft oil seal (emptied sump in 2 mins), Alternator, Starter motor
Other
Clunking suspension due to pivots not greased, drop in hydragas on one side.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No