Here's a guide of things to look at, and look out for, when you think of buying a Rover 600

1/ Engine:
The engine should be serviced every 12,000 miles (6,000 for the Turbo version). Honda engines & gearboxes take mileage very well, so check for clocking. T series engines should really come with a full service history, if not - walk away! Oil leaks , particularly on the 2 litre engines, is well known and recorded around the front corner of the cylinder head. If this is excessive, avoid it. Check the transmission for noise, worn differential bearings are common and cost in the region of £300 (July 2000) to repair. Remember - History Is Vital for a good buy, no history and it could be good bye to your money. Look for blue smoke on tick-over, if there is - walk away.

2/ Suspension & Steering:
Check for worn drive shafts and CV joints, especially on cars fitted with tow-bars. Check for fluid leaks on power steering. On cars fitted with alloys, check inner rim for damage/kinking especially on 16" turbo rims.

3/ Bodywork:
Look for stone chipping around the front bumper and bonnet area, look for evidence of re-spraying, touching up. Check bottom of front doors for stone chips and corrosion. Check rear door hinges for corrosion, visible with the front doors open on the 'B' pillar. Look out for repaired accident damage, only buy if you are absolutely happy and know what you are buying.

4/ Driving:
All models offer lively performance, so if the car shows any sign of sluggidness, avoid and walk away! Turbo models are extremely fast and should shown no sign of turbo 'lag'. Acceleration should be instantaneous in all gears and there should be virtually no torque steer. All models drive smoothly and gear change should be smooth and fairly light. ABS was optional on some models and standard on higher spec versions, ensure it is working correctly. Drivers airbag was standard from April '94, passenger airbags was optional on all models except GSi & Ti models where it was fitted as standard.

In Conclusion:
Go for the best model you can. Avoid i and Si models where possible and go for SLi or GSi spec. as they offer superb value for money. Best Choice: Go for 618 iS, it looks like a turbo with 16" alloys and half leather sports seats. It also offers adequate performance with good fuel economy.

Best model: Without a doubt the 620 Ti! Let them eat your dust.....
Our thanks to Kevin Davies for his assistance in compiling this feature (07/2000)