BUYING WITH CONFIDENCE
CONCOURS £3000- 12,000 1 RESTO OR ORIGINAL?
Bare-shell restorations are the preserve of the most dedicated enthusiasts. You’re more likely to come across mollycoddled originals.
2 WHICH MODEL IS IT?
The best Vanden Plas models command over £6k. MG Metros fetch even more. Mega rarity means MG Metro Turbos can top £10k.
3 ORIGINALITY COUNTS
The best of the humble-spec Metros are typically distinguished by very low mileage, full service history and a lifetime spent undercover and protected from the weather.
GOOD £2000- 6000 1 LOOK AT THE RUBBER
Metric tyres are no longer available, so some owners fit Mini rims. Make sure they don’t create clearance, snagging or geometry issues.
2 BEWARE THE BODGES
Structural integrity is the main factor determining a strong valuation. Ensure that smart paint isn’t hiding dodgy filler.
3 LOOK FOR HISTORY
Frequent oil changes are essential, not least because the gearbox and engine share oil. Avoid ex-boy-racer cars and scrutinise any welding thoroughly.
USABLE £1250- 3000 1 HOW DOES IT RIDE?
Harsh ride quality can be improved by recharging the Hydragas suspension. It’s not really a DIY job; try hydragasandhydrolasticservice.com
2 CHECK THE BODY
Rust sets in anywhere – wings, front valance, bonnet, sills, footwells… even the roof. Corroded brake and Hydragas pipes will need replacing, too.
3 CRUNCH TIME
Manual ‘boxes can suffer in higher-powered Metros, and the Turbo especially. Cars fitted with an automatic gearbox are quite strong and just as popular as manuals.
PROJECT £500-2000 1 GETTING THE BITS
The mechanicals are familiar A-series fare, but finding good interior trim is a pain, and body panels are extremely scarce.
2 COST EFFECTIVENESS
Values will need to keep climbing for it to be worth investing much in base-spec cars. Expense is more easily justified for MG Metros.
3 AVAILABILITY
You’ll find surprisingly few projects on the open market. Most died long ago (engines often end up in Minis), and there aren’t very many examples being broken.