1970 Rover - Austin Maxi 1750 1.7 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
The best British car we never had
Faults:
Required two new front wings at 46,000 miles.
Head gasket replaced at 48,000 miles.
New water pump at 49,000 miles.
Brake master cylinder at 49,000 miles
Clutch plate wore out at 44,000 miles.
General Comments:
The Maxi Club is a great help in finding bits.
Most parts can easily be repaired by the DIY mechanic at home, after all I did the repairs myself (apart from the wings) and found it extremely easy.
In keeping a Maxi on the road, I now go over it every summer while it is warm with Wax-oil, pay attention to the front of the sills behind the front wings & also remove the trim panels and get the wax-oil behind the rear wheel arch box sections. Such effort now really can pay huge dividends later!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st November, 2001
1st Nov 2001, 12:41
I learned to drive in a Maxi and I believe that it is the most underrated car this country has ever produced!!
It's great at swallowing things, a huge amount of room inside, considering it's external dimensions. A true practical car in all its needs. The only problem being that it can be heavy on the steering at low speeds, but like any car you get used to it.
Out of all the Issigonis front wheel drives, the Maxi surely rides the best, and as for what is said about the gearbox, well I've also driven other BMC cars and to me the Maxi 5 speed rod shift is possibly one of the best gear-boxes going!!