General Comments:
Despite some reservations about the longevity of the mechanical parts of the car, I do like it.
Performance is good when you consider the size of the engine and the size of the car, though it does sound very breathless. It does feel smaller than what it is- it seems to sit quite low, with a very short bonnet. The front doors seem to be oversized, and "clunk" shut because theyre so heavy that over time they start to drop on the hinges.
The interior is a bit dated with the stereo a bit of a reach. Some of the plastics are really brittle and feel cheap. The car feels small and narrow inside. This is not helped by the design of the dashboard. The seats are comfortable though, but there isn't much room in the back.
The handling of the car is excellent, this is a feature I was most impressed with. The car is also well equipped, with electric windows, mirrors and sunroof, power steering, drivers airbag, remote central locking and alarm/immobiliser. I think the car was very overpriced when new, but is now practically worthless so the car was a very good buy as an M Plate for £975. Car just passed its MOT with no problems.
On the whole, a decent car. Not a fan of the styling, its very boring and boxy, but does cut a dash in nightfire red metallic and none of that awful two tone bodywork with the grey on the bottom! For a long time I couldnt make my mind up whether I liked the car or not. I did prefer my previous car, a Renault 21. I am warming to the Rover though... I suppose I would reccomend it.
26th Oct 2001, 05:44
You have obviously been very unlucky. Look at the other reviews here and it is clear that most owners find the 400 excellent. I think that the 89-95 model was a much better car than the 95-2000 model.