Rover 216 Coupé
ENGINE 1590cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 120bhp@6800rpm TORQUE 103lb ft@5900rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 121mph 0-60MPH 11sec (approx.) FUEL CONSUMPTION 28-44mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, four-speed auto MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 37,532 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The prospect of an automatic Rover might not set everyone’s heart rate into overdrive, but this coupé really is special – the interior is inviting, the driving position excellent and of course there’s the option of removing the glass T-bar sections of roof for a virtually convertible driving experience. The Rover K-Series engine feels nice and revvy and the four-speed ‘box doesn’t seem to hopelessly sap its power. The ‘box is supersmooth and the kickdown works perfectly. Steering is really precise with no slack and the brakes are superb, without pulling to either side. You couldn’t find a better driving 216 than this, reflecting this Rover’s documented mileage.
BODYWORK CHECK
The car’s body is a tribute to its previous owners, because the silver paintwork is spotless. We couldn’t find the slightest bubble of rust, even along the sills, and there’s no evidence of work having been carried out on any of the wheel arches. It’s all still as Rover intended. There are no scuffs on the bumpers or radiator grille and the front spoiler and side mouldings are in immaculate condition – this car truly gleams. The vendor has powder-coated the wheels and fitted new Pirelli tyres, which, obviously, have plenty of deep tread remaining.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior of this car is in superb order and as comfortable as it looks. The tastefully-finished seats are supportive and we could see no traces of any sagging, rips or tears. The car has the same dash as the later 400 models and again all is tasteful and well-kept – we couldn’t find a non-working instrument or dial and the radio/cassette player looks like the factory original. There’s no damage to the steering wheel and the carpets have clearly been protected by overmats for some time.
UNDER THE BONNET
Again, even the quickest glance into the Rover’s engine bay shows just how well this car has been cared for. Everything is to correct specification and just how it should be. The fluids are properly topped up and clean, all the wiring is free from wear and there is no body corrosion anywhere under the bonnet. The car also comes with a massive history file.
THE CCW VIEW
What a super car, which previous owners have obviously much-loved over the years. The shape of these coupés seems to improve over the years and we can’t say that we’ve seen many in silver – a colour which really suits the car. The car is fun to drive and the automatic gearbox surprisingly pleasant to use. If you want (or need) to drive an automatic, don’t pass this car by. If automatics are not for you, on the other hand, be warned – this Rover might well change your mind!
PROS Overall condition, originality, low mileage CONS Automatic ‘box not to all tastes
BUY IT FROM Trophy Cars, Northbound, Great North Road, A1, South Witham, Lincolnshire NG33 5LN. 01572 767777, trophycars.co.uk
BODYWORK
Superb throughout
MECHANICALS
Great condition, including auto gearbox
INTERIOR
Lovely inside and everything works