Description
1993 Rover Metro 1. 1 Rio Grande. MOT 29/ 8/ 25. Caribbean Blue. 113000 miles.
Good stuff:
Has just had the head gasket replaced and head skimmed, including new uprated head bolts; all parts from DMGRS. Obviously timing belt & water pump were replaced at the same time, along with alternator belt.
Exceptionally sweet engine, even for a k-series.
Funky(ish) interior in excellent condition other than one annoying little cigarette burn in passenger seat.
Remote central locking which works(!). Everything else also works other than cassette player (radio is ok).
Two keys
Original handbooks etc and a folder full of history. Previous owner had it for 20 years but only did 21k in that time; prior to that his sister owned it for five years. He only sold it as he couldn’t justify garage costs to do the head gasket.
Not so good stuff:
Rear of both outer sills (the bit which sticks out and isn’t really structural if you know Metros) will need attention for the next MOT.
Ride is firm (although not as hard as some I’ve driven) so could really do with having the displacers re-gassed.
Gearbox a bit whiny in intermediate gears (it wants to be an a-series!). Also only a 4 speed.
Slight noise from release bearing (but clutch is absolutely fine)
Rear arches, whilst still solid overall somewhat scabby and will need attention in due course. OSF wing is a bit dented, and the previous owner has attempted to ‘repair’ this by rattle-canning most of the upper wing!
Summary: More than presentable from 10 paces. Drives very well allowing for slightly firm ride. An ongoing project but hopefully priced accordingly.
