1997 Rover - Austin 400 SLDi review from UK and Ireland
"Good value and still looks good"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Air conditioning failed to blow cold, but this was traced to a leak in the entire system after an accident.
Offside front shock absorber failed at 84000 miles.
General comments?
I am very impressed by the turbo diesel engine in the 400 series. Even after 105,000 miles it pulls strongly across the gears and is very quick. On a long run it usually returns around 45mpg and this at high motorway speeds as well.
Servicing is relatively cheap and parts don't seem to expensive. There are always specialist garages around to look after them if you don't want to go to a main dealer.
One snag is with the cam-belt change: there are several belts which have to be changed each time and although they aren't very expensive, I've been quoted £400 labour alone as it seems to be a fiddly job.
Overall though it is thoroughly reliable and well equipped car for the money.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 turbo diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 62000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 105000 miles |
| Previous car | Rover - Austin 45 |
| Date of Entry | 9th September, 2002 |