1996 Rover - Austin Mini Sprite 1.3i from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Great fun - but not a car for everyday use
Faults:
Rust on bottom of doors, in the boot, and under front lights when bought.
Complete Service at 37000 miles.
New front section of exhaust - £75!
Differential jammed and blew a hole in the bottom of the gearbox and differential casing causing oil to pour out of the engine. Extremely costly to fix - engine had to be taken out, gearbox and differential rebuilt along with a new clutch which was on its way out. - £600.
Tyre alignment keeps coming out.
Bonnet pops up occasionally over bumps.
General Comments:
The car needs constant attention through cleaning and checking for rust.
It handles like a go cart which is fantastic but with the expence of comfort and my aching back!
Front seats are uncomfortable and too big for the car - you have to remove the headrests for anyone over 5ft to get in the back on the car.
Not too economical - managing only 35mpg after full service!
Awkward to use heating system.
Tight engine bay with ECU etc.
Great starter!
Mini specialists are extremely helpful!
Love the mini community - other mini drivers wave and smile!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 23rd April, 2008
1st Jan 2011, 14:02
The brakes on the later Minis were also used on the 2000cc Triumph TR 7 sports car, and when maintained properly, are more than up to the job. The MoT tester often comments on just how good they are on my Mini each year.
As for oil leaks, yes these cars (like many others) do suffer from oil leaks with age, but these leaks cost just a few pounds to fix. The rubber cone suspension does compress over time (These need replacing about every 10 years) making the ride hard, but is cheap and easy to replace. Most modern cars need springs etc replacing after 10 years, so what's the difference?
In my opinion, the maintenance is often put off by owners, because the cars don't actually stop, but keep going.