1996 Rover - Austin 600 SLDi 2.0 turbo

Summary:

A true wolf in sheep's clothing!

Faults:

Just changed the oils after the first 6,000 miles.

The air conditioning needed replacing when purchased.

General Comments:

This is a bargain motor. At first I hated it, then I drove it and now I love it. These cars are well and truly under rated and easily out perform most other makes. I have left BMW 320TDS and 325TDS at the lights!

The turbo diesel model is supreme and the replacement of parts is fairly cheap too. The insurance whacked me, but I guess you can't have it all your own way.

If you do lots of miles, seriously consider getting this motor, you will not be disappointed!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th June, 2003

26th Mar 2005, 11:34

I have an R-reg 1998 SDI 2.0 TD it goes like stink I have had 135mph out of this which for a diesel is amazing, due to the speed though the inter-cooler pipe split as I don't think they were planning on me driving it when they built these things, but the engine is strong and tough as anything, I've got 95k on my clock and the engine will outlive the car I think.

It's a winner if you can put up with the nilly little things that happen, but that's life with any car.

1996 Rover - Austin 600 SLDI 2.0 turbo diesel

Summary:

If it has a complete service history these cars are a bargain

Faults:

Electric Aerial broke at 65,000 miles.

Drivers electric window kept jumping its runner.

New clutch at 120,000 miles, first time.

Many niggling electrical faults all earthing related.

Front bumper prone to severe stone chips.

Bonnet prone to stone chips.

Display on radio disappeared at 125,000 miles.

Jumps out of second gear on cornering since 100,00 miles.

General Comments:

No real faults that have kept this car off the road for any considerable time.

This is not a quick car, but a solid reliable work horse.

The interior still looks good with a reasonable amount of extras.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th January, 2003

1996 Rover - Austin 600 620i 2.0

Summary:

It really is a high performance bargain

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

As this car is 6 years old and has only done 32,000 miles I believe it is a bargain. It is in superb condition.

I am really impressed by the comfort and acceleration. Cruising at speed is very comfortable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th June, 2002

7th Feb 2003, 10:52

My dad has a 1996 620i (I have a 1994 620iSE, very rare, front fogs, electric extras, ti wheels - I didn't believe it existed until I saw one and then bought it!), and he too has found it very reliable and a good performer. He's had it five and a half years, and its still good. He normally keeps cars three years - this alone shows it good.

1996 Rover - Austin 600 Si 2.0

Summary:

A steal when bought secondhand, not so if you bought it new - watch the DEPRECIATION

Faults:

Just normal wear and tear bits. Had a stainless steel exhaust installed recently, and what a difference it makes!

Driver's electric windows doesn't operate smoothly when wet.

Unknown rattling noise from the rear suspension, though it still drives smoothly.

General Comments:

The car has proved to be very reliable, the Honda engine's great although performance is somewhat affected by the auto box.

The car has however developed some annoying rattles in various parts of the interior, perhaps it's a sign of Rover typical build quality!

Overall, the car's been a reliable cruise with everything I've hoped for from my first car.

A Ford fiester or a Rover 600 for the same money? I know which i'd go for!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th May, 2002

1996 Rover - Austin 600 SLI 2.0 16v

Summary:

For what I paid, a bargain

Faults:

Changed electric aerial, tried to change the air filter but the screws are rusted solid, that's all.

General Comments:

I bought this car for £1900 96 on a P plate with 84,000 miles on the clock so I can't moan.

I do find petrol consumption heavy in town, has anybody got any ideas why. Maybe the air filter hasn't been changed for ages causing more petrol to be used. I will check with Rover.

The interior is pleasant and it has got everything except air conditioning, but the seats are slightly uncomfortable.

I find the amount of road and wind noise annoying at speed, could be quieter.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 8th January, 2002