Description
An unrepeatable chance to own a true survivor of everyday British motoring—this 1993 Rover Metro 1. 1L is a timewarp classic, totally original, mechanically refreshed, and one of only around 40 1. 1L examples still on the road. Factory spec, one previous owner, just serviced, MOT’d, and offered with * FREE UK delivery* to make it even easier to own and enjoy. It’s ready to drive, show, and spark conversation wherever it goes.
We purchased the car privately in February 2020, and over the past five years it has been sympathetically recommissioned and carefully preserved. The car has covered just over 34, 000 miles and has always been garaged and well maintained.
The recommissioning in 2020 included a full mechanical refresh—new cam and alternator belts, water pump, and all fluids, oils, and filters. It has been annually serviced ever since, regardless of mileage, and has just been freshly serviced again alongside its MOT test (valid until May 2026). The fuel filler pipe—a known weak point on these cars—was replaced with a genuine Rover item, and the car runs exclusively on E5 super unleaded fuel to help preserve the fuel system and maintain engine health. Brake cylinders were replaced in 2022 and the car drives exactly as it should—smooth, quiet, and reliable.
The exterior is in very good condition overall and remains in factory specification, retaining its original dealership number plates and window stickers. Paintwork has been machine polished and ceramic coated (Gyeon Q2 One), resulting in a high gloss finish. However, it should be noted that while the paint is clean and presentable, it is not flawless: some fading is visible in certain light, and subtle mismatches are present around the rear arches and front wing from historic repairs—entirely in keeping with the car’s age and usage. There are also a few age-related marks and minor dings consistent with careful use. Underneath, the car is solid with no rust, and underbody protection has been applied. Genuine Rover mudflaps were added to help protect these vulnerable areas further.
Inside, the cabin is an excellent example of period simplicity. Everything remains original—including the factory Rover radio cassette player, door cards, steering wheel, and gear knob. There are no modifications, and no evidence of pets, smoking or vaping, either now or in the past. Seats, carpets, headlining and door cards are clean and intact with no rips or tears, and original Rover-branded rubber mats are fitted front and rear. The dashboard is free of cracks, though there is some very minor discolouration on the binnacle edges.
Electrically, everything works as it should, with the exception of central locking which can be intermittent (the manual locks function perfectly). All other systems, including the lights, wipers, indicators, heating, and radio are in full working order. The battery holds a strong charge, tested with a state-of-health reading over 90%, and has been maintained using a smart conditioner at all times.
The steel wheels retain their original unmarked Rover wheel trims and wear four matching Goodyear tyres with under 300 miles of use. The spare is the original factory-fit Dunlop, unused and still present in the boot.
Perhaps most importantly, the Metro comes with an extensive, enthusiast-grade history file. This includes:
- Original order form and dealer invoice
- MOT certificates dating back to the 1990s
- Servicing and repair receipts
- Invoices for the recommissioning process
- Photo album of ownership and car show appearances
- Recent HPI check certificate
- Rover dealership brochure and period road test magazines
- Original handbooks, servicing book, and service manuals
- Two keys and radio security code
- V5C logbook
Even the little things are present—vintage car accessories like music cassette tapes, de-icer, tissues, shopping bags, and a first aid kit. These add to the nostalgic feel and reinforce just how complete and thoughtfully preserved this car is.
We bought the car in early 2020 to do as a project—partly out of a love for British classics and partly for the satisfaction of saving something rare and genuinely worthy. It’s been a hugely enjoyable process to bring it back to life, and doing so without losing the authenticity that makes it so charming was always the priority. There’s no over-restoration here—just careful recommissioning, preservation, and pride in keeping it honest to its roots.
The Metro 1. 1L was What Car? Magazine’s 1991 Best Small Hatchback, praised for its new-found refinement, handling, and quality—and it still delivers that charm today. Our favourite thing about this car is how pure and unpretentious it feels. It’s basic in all the right ways—light steering, small proportions, excellent visibility, and enough performance to keep up with traffic. It’s fun to drive without needing to be fast. The experience is totally analogue, and all the better for it. It’s a car that makes you smile, not because it’s flashy or loud, but because it represents a different time, and it still does its job incredibly well.
We're only parting with it due to storage limitations. It deserves to be used, shown, and enjoyed—not tucked away under a cover. We’d love for it to go to someone who’ll value it as a true survivor and continue to keep it alive on the road or the show field.
Free mainland UK delivery included (up to 300 miles from North East), fully organised by us for a hassle-free experience. For longer distances, remote locations, enclosed transport, or weekend delivery, we’re happy to work with you to arrange a suitable option, so additional costs may apply for special arrangements.
In short, this is an honest, well-cared-for example of a rapidly disappearing British classic. It’s ready to enjoy immediately, with nothing required, and would make an ideal first classic or addition to a BMC/ British Leyland/ MG Rover collection.
