FOR SALE
A fabulous Rover 100 Ascot with 12,179 miles from new and large history file.
EQUIPMENT
Side intrusion beams, remote door mirrors, tinted glass, remote controlled engine immobiliser with passive arming, perimetric anti-theft alarm, laminated windscreen, styled halogen headlamps, courtesy and loadspace lamps, rubber fascia mat, soft feel steering wheel, security coded radio cassette (Model R660), cassette storage, heated rear window, rear window wash/wipe, electronic headlamp adjust, rear seatbelts, rear coat hooks, front storage door bins. Factory Options; Pearlescent paint. Dealer Options; Rubber tailored floor mats, Rover 2-year Scheduled Servicing option, (Expired).
EXTERIOR
This delightful special edition Rover 100 Ascot has covered a miniscule 12,179 miles from new and remained in family ownership until 2022. Finished in factory optional Nightfire Red Pearlescent, (Code CAQ), the original paintwork gleams and all factory panels are straight with uniform gaps. There is none whatsoever of the common bodywork issues and corrosion found on most examples and even the pristine wheel arches still have factory spot weld dimples. The underside is structurally perfect with the light factory wax still visible. Close scrutiny reveals nothing other than a few very light dings barely worthy of mention. The unmolested appeal of this charming baby Rover is further emphasised with standard trim sections and Ascot badges all present and correct. All glass and even the headlights are etched with the registration number. Supplying dealer number plates, rear screen sticker and tax discs holder remain fitted. Hugely superior in condition to the usual offerings and one for continued preservation, enjoyment and retro outings!
INTERIOR
The special Ascot interior of this remarkable example is in wonderful condition and exactly as Rover intended. The plush upholstery in Oyster, (Code RPI), is spotlessly clean and unworn, as are the matching door cards. The seats display firm bolsters and tight coverings commensurate with the ultra-low mileage. The headlining and soft grey carpeting are immaculate, the latter having been protected from new by genuine Metro rubber over mats. The fascia is perfect and all switchgear is fully functional and retains the showroom fresh feel. The standard Rover Model R660 radio cassette and the factory fitted remote alarm system remain functional operating seamlessly. A pristine boot area completes this very special interior, a rare find in a beautiful preserved state.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The lively 1120cc transverse mounted OHC engine produces 60bhp enabling a top speed of 96mph and a respectable 0-60mph time of 13.7 seconds. The engine jumps into life at the first flick of the key and offers a remarkably eager driving experience and more fun than you might expect! The engine bay is immaculater with factory plates, stickers and labels intact. The five-speed manual transmission offers light and precise changes and a civilised motorway driving manner.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Factory original 13” steel wheels wear the original Ascot wheel trims which are fully intact with only one trim having a light scratch. Originality seekers and show goers will be pleased to see that all wheels are shod in the factory fitted Goodyear GT65 155/65 R13 tyres. The matching spare has never seen use! Due to the age of the tyres it is advised that they are renewed but retained if regular use is intended. The original jack and toolkit are complete in the polystyrene holder along with the spare wheel plywood disc. The dual circuit servo assisted brakes with 9.4” front discs and 7.0” rear drums bring the car up to a steady, straight and assured halt.
HISTORY FILE
This wonderful example was registered new on 20th October 1997 by Rover Main Dealer, Caffyns Plc of Worthing. The new vehicle sales invoice in the history file is made out to first owner, Mrs Dorothy Fowell, who paid £6,501.01 for the car less part exchange allowance for her silver 1991 Rover Metro which had only covered 10,770 miles, she was clearly loyal to the brand! All welcome letters from Rover at the point of sale have been kept. The car remained in the family until 2022 during which time ownership passed to Mrs Fowell’s Grandson, David, and there has been just one further keeper.
The history file consists of the original full Rover book pack including the service booklet. In June 2024 a service, cambelt and water pump, full inspection and brake overhaul was carried out. A separate large history folder contains invoices and previous MOT certificates to further fully verify the mileage. Completing the history is two sets of Rover keys with fobs and Caffyns dealer keyrings and an original 1997 Rover range brochure. The final incarnation of the Metro story, a hugely significant chapter in British motoring history and represented perfectly with this remarkable example.
MOT May 2025, HPI Clear.