1992 Rover - Austin Metro SL 1.4 8v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

I love it!

Faults:

Tyre wear can be high on front tyres if the car is pushed to limits at which it can easily cope. Although I advise purchase of T (rather than S) rater tyres as they last longer.

Rust can be a problem, as with most older rovers, especially watch out for the rear wheel arches and around the jacking points (can lead to an MOT fail).

Head gaskets are a common problem with K-series engines although regular checks while making general engine oil/water checks can spot the problem and prevent a major problem.

On mine the water pump is starting to go, and after long runs - the radiator hence needs topping up.

Other main problems include maintenace of the hydragas suspension system as lower ride heights result in a far less smooth ride, reduced handling, and also bottoming out (of the manifold) on speed humps.

General Comments:

For an onld, cheap to buy 8v car the metro engine is very good. Free reeving with good mid range talk means that it is surprisingly nippy - especially on back roads where you can keep up with bigger sportier (and heavier) cars.

Recently I was told that it handles like a go kart - you point it and it goes, although in winter understear can become a problem with the narrow tyres.

The cabin, especially with the beige trim looks smart and is comfortable, although the standard Philips radio is substandard (the speakers are good).

Running costs are low, I average 35MPG at worst and parts are reasonably priced.

I have driven the car for over 6 years and I have had no major problems with it, just a lot of tyres.

Cheap to buy, cheap to run, nippy and good handling. For the price I don't think you could do better now.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th December, 2004

1992 Rover - Austin Metro GTi multipoint injection 1.4 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Modern day Austin mini cooper s

Faults:

Not much really.

Heater doesn't work apart from level 3.

General Comments:

What a great car this is.

Superb handling and suspension.

Very quick.

Needs to be revved though..

Will see off most so called "better cars" with ease.

Add some tuning parts to it or drop in the 1800 from the Lotus Elise/MGF models for 120bhp.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd June, 2004

19th Nov 2004, 10:46

My heater also only works on number 3!!!

Why is that then?!?!

13th Jun 2005, 05:50

Ballast resistor blown on the heater motor. On the third setting the power goes "direct" to the motor and so it still works.

Easy and cheap to fix.

8th Apr 2007, 14:36

Hi there could someone help I have recently bought a 1994 merto gti it has 1800 k series engine in place, but not wired or plumbed could some please send n right track 2 get running it still has 1400 ecu fitted, but I also have 1800 ecu.

1992 Rover - Austin Metro Gta 1.4 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Cheap, economical, hot hatch

Faults:

Only problems as of yet are; signs of rust on the bottom of the drivers door.

The intermittent wipers do not work.

General Comments:

A very quick little hatch.

The seats are very comfortable.

Cheap Insurance, only £385 fully comp.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th September, 2002

25th Nov 2002, 07:32

92 Metro GTA does not have intermittent wipe function.

1992 Rover - Austin Metro GTi 16v 1396 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Great fun on a budget

Faults:

Rear brake calipers leaking.

Back-box on the exhaust - baffles have gone..

General Comments:

Startling performance.

Great handling, even in the wet.

Comfy front seats.

The look on the face of the driver behind you - worth a million quid.

Rear arches prone to rust bubbles.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th January, 2002

1992 Rover - Austin Metro GTi 1.4 16v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Underestimated car that's quick

Faults:

Thermostat needs replacing.

General Comments:

This car is amazing and the multi point injection model is the best to own.

The handling on this car is superb with no body roll.

The seats are very comfortable and the interior is very smart and sporty.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th August, 2001

1992 Rover - Austin Metro GTi 16v 1.4 16v DOHC (MPi) from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Its performance far exceeds any expectations!

Faults:

Head gasket failed at 35mph in 4th gear; this was due to the design flaw in early K-series gaskets.

When the head gasket does fail with these engines, 90% of the time it is above the alternator at a waterway and is usually non-terminal.

General Comments:

A very quick little car; its acceleration (0-60mph in 8.3s) and top speed (125mph) in standard form puts many other models in its class to shame.

Other than the head gasket, this car has been exceptionably reliable.

Handling is excellent, with front and rear anti roll bars as standard, and additional damper units fitted to the front.

Design and looks of the car are now getting a little dated.

Service costs are extremely low.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th June, 2001

22nd Jan 2002, 09:54

125 mph maximum speed. Bloody hell I wouldn't take on a gti with my 1.1!!