The rover coupe comes in the forms of the 216 normally aspirated (nasp) 1.6 engine, the 220 nasp 2.0 engine, the 218 VVC nasp 1.8 engine and the almighty 220 turbo 2.0 engine.
All are good engines and use pretty much the same body work. Later models have the same dash setup as the 'bubble shaped' rover 200.
The 216 is a cheap, good looking car, that is cheaper to insure than the rest and relatively cheap on fuel too. Next up is the 220 2.0 nasp - a good car, but slightly underpowered if you ask me (many would disagree, but then they haven't owned a VVC and a turbo!). The VVC utilises the same engine that is found in many of the Lotus Elise, MGF/TF and ZR160 cars. 0-60 in just over 7 secs and handling to boot. The top of the range is the 2.0 turbo, becoming hard to find in good condition with low mileage now, but if you can find a good one, it is well worth it - 0-60 in just over 6 secs and topping over 150mph! Impressive! Be warned though, it eats tyres (and fuel) for breakfast is driven hard!
Another advantage is the targa roof with its removeable glass panels, it doesn't get alot better than that on a hot day! All interiors are fairly basic, some with half leather on the VVC and turbo models, and some full leather too.
In my opinion, go for one of the two - VVC and turbo - and you wont go wrong for a cheapish quick car!
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Apr 4th, 2006
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