1997 Rover 200 vi

FOR SALE

My remarkably rare and low-mileage Rover 200vi with only 20, 150 miles +/- on the clock, an unassuming car with a 1. 8L VVC engine that’s both understated and truly thrilling to drive, a real head-turner. Due to an unexpected job offer shortly after buying the car (Nov ‘24), I’ve been issued a company car and don’t have the space to keep my rover and other vehicles!

Features and Equipment

This model is well-equipped with a range of premium features, including a signature Rover grille, tinted windows and an electric tilt-and-slide sunroof. Additional highlights include body-colored bumpers, a rear spoiler, front fog lamps, electric front windows, heated side mirrors, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob. The burr walnut fascia insert adds a touch of class, while the 60/ 40 split folding rear seats provide practicality. Other features include an immobilizer, volumetric anti-theft alarm and a tachometer.

A radio cassette player (model R860) with a refurbished digital clock display has been temporarily replaced with a period Alpine Radio CD Receiver CDE-101R. The original R860 Rover Radio Cassette along with the refurbished clock will be included with the sale, along with a second R860, bought as a backup and is in excellent condition.

Factory options:
- Pearlescent Nightfire Red paint
- Smokestone leather upholstery

Dealer option:
- Tailored Rover 200 vi branded floor mats

EXTERIOR

Finished in the striking Pearlescent Nightfire Red (Code CAQ), the paintwork boasts a brilliant gloss, indicative of careful ownership and minimal mileage. The vehicle’s trim, glass, lights, and badges are all in superb condition, with only ‘minor delamination’ to the chrome trim on the rear left-side bumper—a testament to its age. The pristine condition of the wheel arches, door shuts, and underside further highlights its history of garage storage and fair-weather use. Its subtle styling keeps its high performance under wraps, with the 200vi badge offering just a hint of its sporty prowess.

INTERIOR
The interior is a rare blend of Smokestone leather with red piping and Piccadilly velour inserts in Ash Grey velour, (Code LDL). The seats provide excellent support and remain in immaculate condition, with no signs of wear. True to Rover’s heritage, the cabin features refined touches such as the Burr walnut fascia insert and bright door sill tread strips. Every control and display functions perfectly, including the replaced dash-top display with all pixels intact. The boot is spotless, complete with the original spare wheel, a factory-fitted Dunlop SP Sport 200 tyre (unused), and a wheel-changing kit still sealed in its original packaging.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet lies a 1. 8L VVC engine, delivering an impressive 143bhp and 174Nm of torque. Achieving 0-60mph in just 7. 5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 127mph, this Rover stands out as an understated hot hatch. The engine bay is immaculate, retaining original factory plates, stickers, and labels. The five-speed manual transmission is smooth and adds to the car’s dynamic handling and performance.

WHEELS, TYRES, AND BRAKES

The distinctive 200vi alloy wheels, complete with Rover center caps, are in flawless condition. Brand-new Uniroyal RainSport5 tyres (185/ 55 R15), installed in November 2024, remain unused. Equipped with anti-lock brakes and disc brakes on all four corners—ventilated at the front—the vehicle’s braking system was fully overhauled in late 2024, ensuring top-notch performance.

HISTORY AND DOCUMENTATION

First registered on August 21, 1997, by Halls of Chorley Rover, this vehicle began its life as a dealership demonstrator before being sold to its first private owner, Mrs. Reddy. Meticulously cared for during her ownership, the car has a well-documented history of servicing, including maintenance by a Rover specialist, D C Wilson of Lancaster. After spending over a decade as part of a private garage collection, it was recommissioned in 2023 with a major service, including new belts and a water pump. The most recent service was completed in November 2024.

The comprehensive history file includes the original leather-bound document wallet, service book with 11 stamps, user guides, three sets of keys with remotes, and a collection of service records, MOT certificates, and a Rover 200 range sales brochure. Enthusiast magazines from 1996, featuring positive reviews and comparison tests, are also included.

This exceptionally rare and well-preserved car offers the perfect blend of performance, understated styling, and history.

Private Seller. MOT valid until November 2025. HPI clear. AA/ RAC inspection welcome at your cost. No offers. Tyre-kickers don’t bother I’m in no real hurry to let her go!