1998 ROVER 220 COUPÉ TURBO

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

After a fuss-free start-up, this Rover feels like it’s in very healthy condition. Rover devotees may have already spotted from the (windscreenmounted) registration number that it’s an ‘FDH’ car – a highspec example built in 1996 and intended for a foreign market – but this car was actually sold here in 1998, hence little additions such as the extra brake light. Other than that it’s all standard 220 Turbo fare, with a Garrett turbo that feels like it’s on top form and an engine that pulls healthily throughout the rev range with no misfires or rattles. There are no knocks or bangs from the suspension, it pulls up straight, and the powerassisted steering is free of play.

BODYWORK CHECK

The Tahiti Blue paint has a clear, even shine with no sign of bubbling or overspray. The current owner has carried out good-quality remedial work to all four wheelarches to keep corrosion at bay, and there’s no sign of deterioration in the sills. The lift-out glass roof panels are in fine condition and there’s no sign of rot or mould in the surrounding metalwork. Aside from a small scuff on the nearside front wheel, all 15-inch five-spoke alloys are in good condition. There are a couple of stonechips on the bonnet and a minor scuff on the nearside front bumper, but overall this car looks well looked after.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The leather seats have a couple of minor creases in the bolster but are otherwise in superb condition. There are no cracks in the dashboard plastic, the wood veneer has held up well and the instruments all work correctly, apart from the digital clock, a fairly common minor fault in R8 models. The air conditioning only blows air at ambient temperature, so it’s probably due a re-gas. The carpets are in good condition with no signs of fraying or dampness. All the electronics, including both front windows, operate as Longbridge intended. It’s also been fitted with a Clifford alarm system.

UNDER THE BONNET

It’s a little grubby under here but the T-series engine – a replacement fitted fewer than 10,000 miles ago – is in very healthy condition. There’s no sign of leaks and all fluids are at the correct levels, with the oil a healthy, golden colour. The bulkhead, inner wings and strut top mounts all look well looked after and a pile of receipts plus photos of previous work help to vouch for this Rover’s pedigree.

THE CCW VIEW

This two-owner car might not be concours, but it’s clearly been cherished from new and has had plenty of money and TLC lavished on it. It drives far better than its odometer reading suggests – which is probably down to the replacement engine – and feels like it has many years of life left in it.