1990 Rover - Austin Metro GTa review from UK and Ireland

1) Clips holding brake pipes on busted.

2) Suspension got saggy.

3) Front brake discs.

4) Exhaust.

5) Scabby rear arches.

The suspension on any Metro is a bit dodgy. It may handle like a Go-kart, but expect to have the hydroelastic suspension units pumped up every 12-18 months (about 30 quid) or you get a ride similar to that of a shopping trolley on cobbles. This can make bits start to rattle and fall off (see brake pipes!!) and eventually the front will ground out. This is a BAD THING!!

The exhaust downpipes on the 1.4 models stick out at the bottom, and if this hits the floor it bends and puts the whole exhaust out of line. It can also hole the downpipe, which is bloody expensive to replace.

Watch out for rusty rear arches and boot floors, front floorpans and subframe mounts and just about anything else that is capable of rusting. If you're going to buy any Metro, it's probably best to get friendly with somebody who's a bit tasty with a welding torch as they do rust quite badly.

The 1.4 engine in the GTa is pretty speedy for an 8v, carb fed unit. More than suitable for the traffic light Grand Prix, but can get a bit noisy at high speeds due to the low ratio gearbox. Mine has been extremeley reliable since I've owned it, but I have heard of weak head gaskets and timing belts. The gearbox is nice, but the syncro on first is just about dead.

Overall, a quality drive with good handling and performance at a dirt cheap price. Insurance is cheap as it's not fuel injected or 16 valve or anything. Just find a non rusty one.