1996 Rover - Austin 600 GSDi 2.0i turbo diesel from UK and Ireland
Summary:
A very economical and swift car
Faults:
I first got the car from a friend who had barely used it, and so left it sitting in a field for nearly a year!
A couple of small parts needed replacing in the first couple of weeks (due to lack of use).
And the belt tensioner broke very suddenly.
But basically no problems since.
General Comments:
Nice appearance, with grey full leather interior, and a bit of veneer here and there.
No cruise control on this one, and no air conditioning. But this does wonders for the fuel consumption.
Doing an average of 53 MPG, and a maximum of 63 MPG, it is seriously cheap to run.
Also, for a 2.0 diesel, it does not have bad acceleration, doing 0-60 in 10.8 seconds. Also, having loads of torque, the acceleration, although not overwhelming, is still there even in 5th gear (no need to shift down when over-taking)!
Although the 600's leather seats are comfotable, I still think that the seats in my Volvo 340 GL are more comfortable.
I am very pleased with it, and having done 60,000 miles on it already, I intend on keeping it until either the day I die, or it dies! Can't wait to find out which way it goes!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 5th June, 2001
23rd Jun 2004, 07:31
The engine was run in very well, (was not revved above 2000rpm for the first 2000-3000 miles!!)
I have always let the engine idle for 1 minute before and after any journey, so the turbo will be in good condition, also helping fuel economy.
I also very rarely take it over 60-65mph on the motorway, although once took it up to 110 when in a hurry!
So general care in driving should produce over 50mpg.
The car is now 131000 miles and it has still not dropped below 51mpg, so I'm not sure what's wrong with yours. Do you have air-conditioning, as it is said to dramatically reduce fuel economy?
Regards.
12th Jan 2003, 18:02
I have a SLDI version, and would like to know how you managed to get such a hogh MPG although I am pleased with mine I am unable to get more that 34MPG around town, and 41MPG on long runs if I keep to 75 MP, so what is your secrete. Can you pass on any tips.