1997 Rover - Austin 400 i review from UK and Ireland
"Excellent small family car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch was worn off and had to be replaced at 70000 miles.
I had to replace the front part of the exhaust.
I know from the servicing history that the head gasket was replaced at 56000 miles.
I found once after heavy rainfall, that there is some rainwater on the bottom of the boot.
General comments?
I think the car is underrated as its handling is very good, and the engine is a cracker.
The biggest issue is that if you are over 6 ft tall, and have to sit in the back- there is simply not enough headroom.
The 1.4 engine will suit one driving alone or with 2 persons, as it is a bit weak for a fully laden car. Wind noise is ever present, and annoying while travelling on motorways over 75 miles/h.
I like the classic shape, which aged well over time compared to its rivals - especially the french cars.
The car is reliable, but maintenance is very important, especially weekly coolant fluid checks to avoid engine overheating, which causes the well publicised head gasket failures.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 58000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 79000 miles |
| Previous car | Daewoo Matiz |
| Date of Entry | 20th May, 2007 |