1991 Rover - Austin Maestro Clubman review from UK and Ireland

4 new shock absorbers.

Both front wheel bearings.

Headlamp switch.

This car has reasonable performance and good economy from its durable 1275cc engine.

Handling is much better since I replaced the front shock absorbers and later the rear ones-required for the last MOT.

The 1.3 engine seems to go on forever given regular oil changes and good general maintenance. Mine has covered 110000 miles on the original unit and still doesn't use much oil.

The interior is quite comfortable for a basic model, surprisingly there is a sunroof as well, something not often on entry level models. The odd squeak or rattle from the interior is also likely on any Maestro model.

The electrics can be a bit of a pain at times, I've had to replace a couple of headlamp switches. Also the tailgate wash/wipe motor mechanism tends to seize, but this can usually be dealt with by carefully removing it and freeing up the seized parts.

Although a bit dated, this is a very reliable car which starts in all weathers first time.

It has cost me about £200.00 in repairs and parts to get it through 5 MOT tests.

Parts are still readily available and

are cheap.

All in all, better than their reputation suggests, although mine is finally going soon, I've had a lot of good, inexpensive motoring from this car.