1996 Rover - Austin 800 Vitesse Sport Saloon 2.0 turbo

Summary:

Inconspicuous and surprising, comfort at speed

Faults:

Power windows have developed a minor fault and sometimes fail to operate, but always close when the alarm is set.

Other than this just general wear and tear. Tyres and pads etc.

Just starting to get the common dash top lift above the clocks, this can be rectified with the correct adhesive.

General Comments:

I was really surprised with the performance of the car considering it is so large and heavy.

The car has now had several modifications including s/s exhaust, turbo boost valve + gauge (fitted in place of the clock), filter induction kit and quickshift gear change. I've also uprated the brakes, 325mm grooved discs to the front (285mm standard) and vented on the rear. Ultra Xenon bulbs have been added to headlights and driving lights as the standard ones were fairly poor.

The car now produces 263BHP, and gets to 60 in 5.3 seconds. Sounds excellent and sees off everything at the lights, embarressing many a GTi, RS turbo and a few Scooby drivers.

I still get over 25mpg on average, and would recommend an 800 to anyone who is after a luxurious car with a low budget.

I enjoy driving this car now as much as when I first got it, it still makes me smile everytime.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th April, 2004

1996 Rover - Austin 800 SLI 2.0 injection

Summary:

Cheap pile of c

Faults:

My fuel pump went after four miles £150 quid to fix.

Clutch sticks when depressed told will cost £200 to fix.

Has started blowing smoke like a hippie.

Needed four new tiyers and new ones are not keeping there pressure

Alloy wheel lock key has lost its thread after changing four wheels.

Lights have a mind of there own and the local priest had no look in removing the demon which lives in this car.

General Comments:

This car has been the worst thing I have ever bought wish I burn the money instead.

Please please I beg you come round my house and burn it.

What ever you do don't buy one of these.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 20th February, 2003

1996 Rover - Austin 800 820i 2.0

Summary:

A roomy, reliable and economical saloon

Faults:

Boot release catch failed in last month.

Water was getting into boot but this stopped when trim repaired/renewed.

Immobiliser sometimes difficult to deactivate.

General Comments:

I think this car is excellent value for money and was £1000 cheaper than an equivalent Mondeo when I bought it.

The faults are minor. It has never broken down or failed to start. There is bags of room in the back with 3 proper seats and belts. It is not very sporty but fast enough for most drivers including myself. Twin air bags and ABS were standard. I do not know why Rover has a bad reputation if this car is typical.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th April, 2000

1996 Rover - Austin 800 825 SLI 2.5 petrol

Faults:

Fuel leak from pump/injector unit.

General Comments:

Model getting old and creaky, but goes fine and is nice on the motorway. Handling not as bad as some say.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th May, 1998