Rover Montego 1.6 LX

Had my Rover Montego for a few months. She's a 1.6 automatic, 'G' reg, with all the toys. Driveability could not be any better and she sticks to the road like a leech. The 1.6 engine delivers roughly 87bhp and gives a nice punch through the 4 speed auto gearbox. She's got just over 87k on the clock but still drives as new.

The main problems I have had with this car is firstly the fuel consumption. Automatics generally do use a little more fuel. Most 1.6 manual Montys will return 40mpg (if you leave the Nova drivers alone and drive sensibly). My 1.6 auto only returns 23mpg and she has been tuned to within an inch of her life!! No leaks in petrol tank or fuel lines, cylinder head fine and no misfire. UNEXPLAINABLE!!!

Common problems with the Montys are water leaks into, well, anywhere. Main places are through taillight housing into the boot, Sunroof and ill fitting door seals which seem to shrink with age!

Heater motor failures are also common and murder to fix. Full dashboard out!! That is of course if you can locate a replacement as parts for this old classic are few and far between.

Overall the Monty is a cracking old car which just needs a wee bit of love and attention. Give her that and she repays the favour with years of satisfaction, and Vauxhall Novas in rear view mirrors!!!!!!

Mark McKay, Scotland.

I have owned my 1.6LX Rover Montego since it was a year old. It has given excellent service and parts are very cheap to get. It has a giant boot and gives loads of headroom in the back. It has electric front windows and Sunroof, which is good for a car of that age. It is very nippy for a 1.6 and is a better drive than the rivals of the same age.

This is the car for you if you are looking for very cheap reliable Motoring.