Positioning:
The Rover 100 (and its predecessor, the Austin Metro) was a compact, front-wheel-drive hatchback designed as a practical and affordable city car. It competed in a crowded segment of small hatchbacks during its production run.
Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Nova (Opel Corsa), Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Peugeot 205, Renault 5/Supercinq
Features Of Vehicle:
Compact dimensions, fuel efficiency (relative to era), hatchback practicality, front-wheel drive, independent suspension (often Hydrolastic), transverse engine layout.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides essential, detailed information for maintaining and repairing the Rover 100 across a significant portion of its life. It empowers owners to perform tasks that might otherwise require expensive dealership visits, thus saving money and extending the vehicle's lifespan.
Applicable Years:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Complete Full Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, tuning, diagnosis, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and early injection), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management systems (as applicable)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (gearbox) overhaul, clutch operation, driveshafts, differential, automatic transmission (if applicable and specified within the manual, though primarily manual was common)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake lines, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, brake discs/drums, parking brake system, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, wipers, washers, horn, instrumentation, fuse box layout, common electrical faults and diagnostics
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (hydrolastic or conventional depending on variant/year), rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, steering column, wheel alignment
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, windows, interior trim, jacking points, structural components, rust prevention and repair techniques
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, heater matrix, ducting, blower motor, demisting systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), fluid level checks and top-ups, lubrication points, belt adjustments
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement, suspension and steering repairs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical fault finding charts, engine performance issues
Diagnostics:
Methods for diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems, including checks for compression, ignition timing, fuel delivery, and electrical circuit integrity
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to major overhauls and advanced troubleshooting. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Family:
BMC/Leyland E-Series
Common Displacements:
998cc, 1275cc (various versions including twin-cam MG variants)
Typical Horsepower 998Cc:
Approx. 40-45 bhp
Typical Horsepower 1275Cc:
Approx. 55-60 bhp (standard), higher for MG variants (e.g., 70+ bhp for MG Metro)
Torque Curves:
Available within manual, often emphasizing low-end torque for city driving.
Fuel Delivery Early:
Single-point carburetors (e.g., SU HIF 4, Zenith Stromberg)
Fuel Delivery Later:
Early electronic fuel injection (EFI) on some models, particularly performance variants (e.g., MG Metro EFi)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (later models) / Leaded gasoline (earlier models, requiring lead substitute or hardened valve seats for unleaded)
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker points (early) to electronic ignition (later models).
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transaxle
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic transaxle (less common)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual, varying slightly between engine sizes and models.
Manual Gearbox Oil:
GL4 SAE 90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (if applicable)
Length:
Approx. 3,380 mm (133 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,570 mm (61.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,290 mm (90.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 700-800 kg (1540-1760 lbs), depending on engine and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Detailed in manual, typically around 1200-1300 kg
Crash Test Results:
Early models predate modern stringent crash testing standards. Limited data available, generally considered basic safety for its era. Specific ratings are unlikely.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Some later models may have had ventilated front discs.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Not typically available on this model range.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts (lap and diagonal), rear lap belts standard. Manual will detail installation and adjustment.
Airbags:
Not available on this model range.
Structural Integrity:
Reinforced A-pillars and side impact beams introduced in later versions (including the Rover 100), detailed in manual for inspection.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (contact breaker ignition) or 24,000 miles (electronic ignition)
Coolant Change:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/CD or SG/CD, viscosity typically 10W/40 or 20W/50 (check manual based on climate and engine)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze. Dilution ratio 50/50 with distilled water. Specific glycol content and corrosion inhibitors detailed in manual.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify which is correct for the system.
Rust Corrosion:
Common issue in sills, wheel arches, bulkhead, and rear crossmember due to age and material. Manual provides guidance on inspection and repair.
Hydrolastic Suspension:
Can require fluid top-ups or re-setting if pressure is lost. Manual explains the system and maintenance.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors (especially SU) can require regular adjustment for optimal performance and emissions. Manual details tuning procedures.
Gearbox Synchromesh:
Wear can lead to difficult gear changes, especially in older units. Manual offers troubleshooting.
Rover Legacy:
Rover, a long-standing British automotive marque, was known for a range of vehicles from luxurious saloons to robust off-roaders. The Rover 100 represented their effort in the crucial small car segment.
Predecessor:
The Rover 100 is essentially a facelifted and rebadged version of the Austin Metro, which was launched in 1980. The Metro itself was a significant car, designed to replace the Mini.
Rover 100 Transition:
In 1989, the Metro was relaunched as the Rover 100. This update included revised styling, improved interior, and updated mechanicals, including the introduction of more powerful engines and better refinement. This manual specifically covers this later iteration.
Production Period Metro:
1980-1989
Production Period Rover 100:
1989-1997 (though this manual covers the initial 1980-1990 period).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily UK (Longbridge plant)
