@@dizzy2020 Rovers had EOBD sockets quite early on, maybe not 800 or 600s been Honda but 400/200/100 had them. My 1998 400 tourer has an EOBD. My T2 diagnostics works a treat on it and LandRover to.
@@dizzy2020 In general MG Rover cars were not EOBD compliant until they absolutely had to be. The diesel 75/ZT wasn't EOBD compliant until I think late 2004. Some other notes:- 1. EOBD only covers the engine ECU, whereas pscan covers engine, transmission, ABS, immobiliser, BCU. 2. Even on the engine EOBD only has to support the "emissions" related information. If you connect the engine ECU in Rover proprietary mode you can access a lot more information that you can in EOBD mode.
@@matty6848 If you'd ever been anywhere near Cowley you'd know that they were in such a downward spiral any kind of rescue was out of the question. I agree it's a shame but the 60/70's Socialism destroyed a lot of manufacturing in this country, combined with dismal management and an almost total lack of creativity/imagination.
@@philiplindley7384 I know Phil I used to work at the Longbridge plant on the maintenance. Once I finished my apprenticeship I took my voluntary redundancy because even at a mere 21 and pretty clueless I could see what was coming. I left when BMW pulled out, they offered 7k redundancy & living at home with my parents 7k back 2000 was a nice chunk of money. I remember the old boys saying to me “this place will never shut down” & two years after I left Rover literally went bust overnight. Talking to some of the guys who were there to the end they said the last 18 months the track what we called aka the production line hardly moved. They’d build about 15/20 cars in a 8 hour shift where as a few years before they were building 40 cars a hour. I think most knew deep down it was going to happen but we’re in denial. Me, I took my cheque for 7k and went travelling round Asia & Australia for a year. Ironically enough since you’ve mentioned Cowley the now Mini plant I work there occasionally as a sub contractor servicing all the production machinery. I now work sub contracting for the ex firm, that trained me up but instead of Rover 75s and 800s being built it’s the Mini. Don’t know if you’ve ever been through Longbridge recently but the area is unrecognisable from 10 years ago. Now it’s mostly modern housing Estates, pensioner villages and a shopping village called “Longbridge village” nice touch is they’ve named the new housing estate roads of the roads that existed in the factory before it was torn down as remembrance to the history of the area, generations of families were employed at Rover including my Own. when it shut it decimated the area, There were even Cadbury workers turning up at Cofton park in support of the Rover workers who lost their jobs, as Cadbury’s Bournville is only a few mile up the road & many had families working there. There’s a good documentary on UA-cam called “Rover the Long Goodbye” basically explains how Rover was a dying company from the 70s strike action era & how Rover never really recovered from it. Well sorry to go on but just thought you’d find that interesting? Thanks for reading🙂👍
"Most people aren't racing drivers" - never a truer word said! There's so much emphasis on performance nowadays it's completely lost touch with reality.
This is why people have turned to SUVs. Its the only way you can get a comfortable ride these days. Rewind back 20 years ago and most cars had respectable suspension travel and dampening. Now thanks to modern motoring journalism almost every non suv saloon or hatch has piss poor ground clearance and harsh sporty suspension
It's been a great series watching you and your Rover 75. I've had mine now for a good few years and it's been really reliable, but when thing's do go wrong they can cause a real headache and open wallet surgery to get it back in fine fettle. Saying that though, I just can't bare to part with it. In my eyes it just looks fantastic to look at, and the drive is so relaxed and comfortable. Even the interior has got that touch of luxury about it all.. Let's hope Rita the Rover goes to a good home and will continue to live for many years to come, as these car's are starting to become a rare sight on our roads now 👍👌🇬🇧
I had two from new, including the MG version. They were very comfortable, relaxing to drive and well equipped. The first one came with satnav and televisions when both were unheard of in mainstream vehicles.
The Rover 75 is one of the rare near-perfect cars in my book. Sad to hear you and Rita are set to part company, however. All the best to both of you on your separate ways nonetheless.
@@tonyfairhurst4650 lets be honest, the BBC no longer represent the British people, it’s now just a new world order propaganda machine. One of their biggest mistakes was sacking Clarkson, Top Gear is now a third rate motor show that I can’t even be arsed to watch! And the Grand Tour isn’t much better.
@@mastercylinder1939 They hijacked the old Tif Needell _et al._ show to make the Clarkson fantasy spectacle. Seems punters demanded it. The old programme helped you choose or fix a motor-JC made it his own vanity project for his humungous ego, to entertain immature 'lads' who loved seeing cars thrown through the air for kicks, etc. BBC claimed there was no appetite among viewers for a basic motoring show any more, yet amazingly Ian and several other notables draw in thousands of subscribers like us. Go figure...
For a few years, I had the Peugeot equivalent of the '75', the '406' in Executive trim. Unfortunately it was the petrol version and although it went like the clappers, even when driven moderately, the fuel consumption was not good. However, with all the toys you could wish for, the most gorgeous soft leather upholstery and an oh so sublime ride, I put on 147,000 miles in it before the cost of a new clutch made me part with it in '07. The irony is that I part-exed it locally (the dealership told me it was the best example they'd seen) and I see it out on the road still and it's 23 years old now!
I agree with most of your thoughts! I had the MG ZT 1.8T which has the k series petrol engine with a little turbo to slightly boost the power to 160bhp. It was a lovely car to drive, handled really nice, a good compromise of firmness and comfort, ideal family car, very roomy with an adequate size boot, we did a few family holidays in it without issue. The boot did fill up with water once when I left it standing but never had any issues when it was in daily use! The clutch was very hard and I believe a common issue which can be resolved. Economy was brilliant , road tax quite reasonable and insurance surprisingly cheap, lots of high end features, good audio system, blaupunct cd changer, electric windows all round etc For it's size it was quite nimble and very agile, definitely surprised me a few times. I also had the s type jaguar although that was a 3.0 v6 auto obviously it was slightly more luxurious inside but the MG ZT compared well on terms of comfort and driving but without the expense and thirst of the jag lol 👍😎😁 I honestly wished I'd kept it, getting very rare on the road these days! 😎👍 Edit - just thought I'd add they've aged really well and don't look particularly dated in my honest opinion!
I'm not a huge fan of Rover, but I think they absolutely nailed the styling on the 75. Easily one of the better looking saloons at the time, & even nicer in estate form. It was the one Rover I was kinda half tempted to buy, but ultimately didn't. Will you keep it?
The forward "tilt" of the seats was also a problem for me with my T4's. I solved it by adding a few heavty washers under the front fixing bolts. Works like a dream. Edit: the T4 's I refer to are a 2001 VW T4 Multivan and a 2001 VW T4 California campervan.
With a car of that spec, I am surprised there is no seat height adjustment on it. Even our base model 1981 Volvo 240 had that. It was manually done, with two levers under the driver's seat, with front and rear of the cushion each having 3 positions. The same was true on the passenger seat, but you needed a socket to remove the bolts.
Very accurate review of the 75, and I loved my Tourer. As it was a Diesel Automatic, had non of the gearbox/clutch issues. Not the fastest or most spacious but as Ian says, it's a thoroughly nice place to cover the miles
You could have upgraded it with a BMW ECU to put out 168hp. Besides that the Tourer Diesel Auto was clearly the best choice. Loved the fact that you could only open the rear window without bothering with the tailgate. Nice touch adopted from the 5 series BMW.
@@gustavmeyrink_2.0 It's simply a remap and a removal of the EGR. Mine has this modification and it's well worth it, works especially well with the auto gearbox.
@@gustavmeyrink_2.0 I haven t heard one bad thing about the V6. Engine is reliable, there are no head gasket problems, unlike the K4. The 2.0 is indeed a bit obsolete, the 2.5 has about the same costs of ownership as the 2.0, but it s more beefier and the more wanted setup.
We had a 1.4 2002 Rover 45 for about 6 years years. It was reliable (alternator failure and air con leaks was about it for troubles, after we solved a cooling problem left by the previous owner). It always felt firmly planted on the road, even on adverse camber bends. However it lacked low end torque so hill starts involved lots of clutch wear, the gearbox was slow and unpleasant to use. We sold it a few years ago and it ran on for two more years before chassis rust got the better of it. And there's the point: Rover 45s can look spotless from the outside but suffer from bad rust underneath, so if you're buying one, be careful.
I think had the motor industry in the UK not been nationalised and consolidated into one big group, a number of the old marques would still be here today, including Rover, but it was just one huge mistake after another given it was all management-run for the big bucks rather than run by the people who knew what a car should be...
@M Bacon But even in early times the independent companies sourced components, large and small, from different companies. Its why its called assembly line. some went vertically integrated and others acquired others starting in the 1920s!
All manual cars have concentric clutch slave cylinders these days. I agree they are an expensive PITA, and they are all plastic including the master cylinder/pedal box and they all break far too easily. It's not a Rover problem its an industry problem....or not a problem as it gives them lots of work fixing them, and makes people scrap otherwise good cars because of the cost of repair.
Certainly a car I’d like to own if I had the space for another one. I think they look simply stunning and I agree that colour is beautiful. I also liked them in both the dark and very light blues.
I remember the (UK) press of the time comparing this favourably with almost all the competition - Accord, 5 series, E class, Camry, Laguna, C5, etc. Hmm.
I think you should have included the dire politics going on with Rover vs BMW at the time. It's really hard working with a German company which, on the one hand, says you should make a profit but on the other tells you NOT to take sales from the 3-Series under any circumstances. It must have been very difficult for the engineers and management.
I liked the styling when they came out, and still do. It looks just lovely from some angles. Only slightly let down by some styling features, such as those fog lights. My dad owned a 2001 petrol engine. It had no umph, but it did ride well and was quiet inside. A major plus was the air con, it would be icy cool inside even on the hottest days. It was starting to rust badly underneath by its 10th year, and finally the head gasket failed. Not a bad car, perfect for my old man, who really liked it I think.
I have had 5 of these over the years, including a brand new one in 2000. Funny story time, my wife bought me a private plate (T100RON) which I wanted to have put on the Rover when I picked it up. I made my own plate up (to shape the rear). When I took it in to reception the lady said oh that’s a good plate. She then asked my name! In my best trigger voice I looked her in the eye and said “Dave”.... This was a 1.8 litre petrol which had loads of extras - it was a show car - in a beautiful shade of petrol. In later years I had several 2.5 litre petrol and the diesel above. Without doubt the best new car I have ever bought. I will doubtless get another sone point. Really enjoyed watching your ownership, the work you have done and your views. Thank you!
Dear Hubnut . I first saw a 75 here in Holland in 1999 and I remember my jaw dropping to the concrete . But gosh , they were expensive ! Well , five years ago after a lot of shit with my Nissan , I had enough ! I collected all my Dutch courage and bought one . Its a Cowley built 1.8 Connoseur , Arden green with Sandstone leather interior and automatic tranny . I did 50K miles with it , and I am HOOKED . This Britt Beauty is still rustfree and that big K runs like a Swiss clockwork , so smooth and silent . And yes , I had the headgasket replaced immediatly after purchase with the multi layer steel gasket , and it was perfect from day one . I love its chroombits and real wallnut dash , the 50s style Bentleyseats , that one of a kind instrumentpanel . But most off all I love its stiff upperlip aprouch to hard sidewind or worn out tracks in the road surface , it goes strait ahead like a train even at 90 miles an hour . Its a wonderfull car with loads of caracter and stile only Brittish cars seem to posess . I will keep it alive as long as I can even if I have to spend thousands of Euro's , thats how much I got attached to this amazing jewel of a car . I remember my colleges five years ago , smiling about that idiot that bought an old Rover . Well , they don't smile anymore ..............
I am on my 3rd Rover 75 , I currently have the CDT .I had the 2.5 V 6 manual , previous to that one was another CDT. The 2.5 was a Connie in moonstone green , my first CDT was a black Classic.My current one is also a Classic moonstone green colour. Before I got my 75 I had 2 45's a MG ZR 2.0 TD , and a Rover 25. I obviously didn't have them all at the same time! What can I say I like Rover's faults and all!
I heard you say you preferred the Rover 45 to the 75. I have a 45 and last year it wasnt running very well and my garage told me it would cost £1,500 to fix it , so I seriously considered getting a 75. However, though I like the 75 its a bit too big for me, it's only me and my girlfriend and my 1.4 45 is so cheap to run and I couldn't think of any other car I preferred so I fixed it myself for £300 during lockdown and I'm glad I did. It was only a leaking valve, but while I had it in bits I reground all the valves, fitted new oil seals , new piston rings, new head gasket with updated bolts, new water pump, cambelt and battery. It's a very nice little car, refined yet cheap to run.
Ian, the upper door trim is close so the side airbags, if it has them, can be right next to your head, so it can be knocked off by said airbags in case of a crash...BRILLIANT! If no airbags, that way so you are closer to the action when something happens...enjoy...I suggest a helmet.
I had a Y reg 2.5 V6 automatic connoisseur se some years ago. The V6 complimented the ride and refinement perfectly. It was used as our main family car to transport my wife and I plus three kids. It even swallowed all our luggage and Christmas presents for a Christmas away one year, so I'm surprised you find the boot inadequate and the interior claustrophobic. These were a good car torpedoed on launch day by BMW at the British motor show.
My experience of a Rover 75. I remember travelling in the back of a family friends 75. A 75 tourer turbo diesel. At first I was very impressed. Nice interior, quiet engine. Reasonable performance and acceptable room. Think we had a 3 series at the time and the Rover felt plusher. Then we got to a B road and all I could think was how long to my destination. I don't feel well. The car wallowed. My mum also in the back felt bad too! Their kids were in our car. Neither of us fought to ride in it on the way home. In the back of the 3 series there was no nausea. We had to make up an excuse to avoid travelling back from our walk in it to not disappoint our friend. Then next experience was when someone on my street at uni got one. It didn't idle well so he had to rev it but it was the V6 so I'm glad he did as it made a good noise. I'd definitely opt for a V6. Maybe the ZT suspension would suit me better. Best car on that road was an E39 5 series. Made it feel like there was no bumps or undulations in it and no corners either. Nothing else has been as good.
I ended up with a ZT -T V6. 10 years ago. It had allegedly been built for one of the Phoenix people and was loaded with every option including flip paint which extended to where the wood is in yours. It was a more than capable load lugger. I got it because I needed something cheap and big for a house rebuild. It made me slightly sad. It had 170,000 hard miles under its wheels and was tatty and rough around the edges. I forgave it the few faults it threw up. It made me sad because you could tell that when it was new, it really was something rather special with its massive spec sheet, Longbridge service department service stamps and "BX" registration. I am so glad I can say I owned one, but with waterlogged electrics, less than great brakes and that complex VANOS? thing. It is not a car I'd have again.
That's a fair review, I had mine from new to 15 years old, it was a superlative cruiser. I could get in, set off and 300 miles felt like nothing. As for its flaws: the Bosch fan, the rear-light gaskets, the sun-roof drains, it ate front tyres and brake pads. The ABS sensor, the alternator (thanks oil filter), the ECU mount and 'drain' plugs. I didn't feel claustrophic at all though and I would say the Connoisseur had tilt and slide seats with lumber adjustment - they were the nuts in terms of support and comfort. 195,000 miles later - worth much less than a bag of sand and a likely MOT fail needing all new discs, pads and shocks (£1400) - that was it. Glad you got something from it - they are a 'specialist' car because of the engine layout, they are all transverse, so they are a pig to work on.
I had an MG ZT diesel for 6 years. Pretty reliable until it got flooded. I loved it. Most of the flaws you mention didnt bother me. Mine was a 130bhp model but had a tune to ~160bhp via the owners club. Made it much better to drive.
At a smidge under 6' 4" 'cramped' is absolutely not how I would describe the 75 diesel estate I had. I also found the electrically adjustable, heated leather seats to be very comfortable. On the whole very reliable for the 6 years I had it once you take care of the weak spots (ECU flooding and fuel pump death if run consistently with
Ok, you've redeemed yourself. I'll forgive you for the Alternator fiasco!. One man's claustrophobic is another man's cozy and the feeling of being enveloped in a warm safe world. The first 75 I ever travelled in was in Yorkshire on a late September evening. Even 20 years on I remember that trip like it was yesterday, it made such an impression. The Webasto is a great piece of kit that can be repaired with a bit of time and patience. It wasn't just Rover fitting such devices as BMW and Volkswagen were keen users!. My 75 with the FBH warns up quicker than my petrol Volvo 940 and that's quick at warming up (just ask Peter Simpson how great they are). My two have Freelander temperature sensors that trigger the FBH at a higher ambient temperature, a worthwhile upgrade. During the course of my job I get to drive all manner of makes and models and I'm genuinely going to struggle to replace my daily 75! A Volvo V70 is the closest I can find to anything I like, but for me the 75 will reign supreme! I very much look forward to your next purchase. Your channel is addictive! Keep up the excellent and entertaining work.
That's a very fair and reasoned assessment. I briefly had a £500 Rover 75 V6 Connoisseur. It was lovely to drive but had rusted badly underneath and so had to go. I now have a contemporary - 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 2.0TS - beautiful styling and lusty engine. £1000 and not too much rust - could be a keeper!
Loved following the Rita series. If you happen to be in Scotland when some sort of normality returns you are more than welcome to have a shot of my ZT to see how you feel about Rita’s slightly more spicy sibling. Looking forward to whatever the replacement will be 👍🏻
I had a 2 litre V6 petrol Conoisseur and it was fabulous, at 5' 11' I didn't find cramped at all, it was graceful, powerful and great on fuel for a big petrol car, the only things I had problems with was a slow electric window, not a brilliant heater, but a very cold aircon, and it would snap suspension springs( but they are cheap), I would have another if I had garage space....
Point of note to HubNut. Tesla is currently profitable, although this mainly comes from selling regulatory credits to other carmarkers. ($1.6 billion in 2020).
I like your comments on the size of the Rover 75. Some years ago, a caravanning friend of mine had a Rover 75, whilst I had a 2000 Astra G Saloon. Both in a similar dark red metallic. One day, we happened to park the two vehicles side by side, and our conversation immediately turned to the size of each vehicle. We both decided there was nothing to choose between the two of them, both were almost identical in size. So the largest vehicle in the Rover range was the same size as the next to the smallest in the Vauxhall fleet. Peculiar that!
My dad had the V6 75 and he loved it. It had a few minor faults he had to rectify but nothing major. He said it’s was powerful and comfort in another level. Trouble is the 75 was too little too late, the damage had already Been done to Rover by the stage it was released.
I owned a 75 diesel, low milage and A1 condition, never really warmed to it, my heart belonged to a Rover 800 that I'd owned a few years before the 75. The 800 was a 1996 KV6 auto, SLI, I loved it, I still wish that I'd kept the 800.
My father-in-law had one for a short time, a 1.8 petrol Club. I got out of a Fiat 500, into the Rover, and wondered where all the space had gone. As you say, claustrophobic. I'm not tall, but found myself ducking down to look out of the windscreen, with the seat at its lowest setting. I found the oval dials difficult to read. I suppose once you got used to it, the needle position would be enough, but driving it a short journey, once a month was not something to look forward to. But trying to cram him, or my partner into the back of a 500 was more challenging. Underbonnet access is difficult on everything these days, the Rover was a little ahead of its time there.
I remember this bloke at work bought one when they were new and showed me around it. He loved it but I couldn't really fit in it comfortably. He was about 5'6 and I'm 6'2.
I had one, almost from new. I have owned far too many cars but it was one of the best cars I ever had. I was told to sell it by a bodyshop that were repairing a boot lid following an accident - they said spares would be almost impossible to find in the future. Selling it was a huge mistake.
My current car is a 45, a vehicle I derided in the snobbery of my youth. I have to say, it's really good, the interior space is slightly too small for my needs and some of the switchgear wouldn't look out of place in a Triumph Acclaim, but it's one of the best cars I've had.
I really like your videos! I have never driven a 75, but I always loved its beauty. Maybe I should buy one as soon as possible... At the moment, they are almost giving them away in the Netherlands where I live. Prices starting at 350 euros.... Greetings from Holland, Maarten
I love the styling! The headlights and the line above them is pretty smart design, is a very good retro/modern car. Sad i can't afford one, here are for sale used at u$s9k 😩
To be honest - I don’t think the diesel was ever considered a prestige version of this model. The tourer did have lots more space and I was never short of storage. To me, the V6 in the 190 version was the one to go for. The V8 was just crazy and I went back to a V6. Still miss it in many ways!
One of my favourite details on the 75 is the headlights, they have the outline of a regular lamp unit shape around the bonnet and headlight, which meant they could apply the same design to the 25 and 45, giving them the corporate nose but without changing the old sheet metal - Very clever.
I've owned a ZT diesel, and by the sounds of Ian's praising of the supple ride I suspect he'd not be too impressed by the ZT's suspension set-up! I had to replace the wheels on my ZT, I suspect due to the hard suspension taking its toll on the rims and damaging them prior to my ownership which meant lots of flat tire incidents. I really liked that car, even after experiencing the failed slave cylinder fault needing a new clutch.
Nice final summation. I can see why you're letting Rita go but she isn't leaving in disgrace by any means. My feeling is that the 75 (like many future classics) needs a few years yet to be truly appreciated. It almost needs to be forgotten so it can be rediscovered and properly appreciated. But nobody can really afford to or be bothered to hang on to cars long enough for this to happen. You'll at least be able to look at these videos in 40 or 50 years and marvel at what a lovely looking car it was and will remain.
Yours is a wonderful channel and I wish that it may long continue. I'm unable, at present, to donate or, become a patreon however, I do share your videos and, I also watch the adverts, which, by doing so I understand helps the channel. I would urge other viewers, who may find themselves in my situation, to do the same. Many thanks for the varied and entertaining content. Big thumbs up.
I also I have a Rover 75, though mine is the 1.8 Kettle Series, I do agree with most of the points you make. I dont get the claustrophobia as much because, being taller, I tend to sit with the seat all the way down. But with the seat set for me the back seats are near on impossible to use for people. I always find Rover clutches heavy and a bit unforgiving. The main things I like are, how quiet it is, super soft suspension and the fact at 6ft7 I can spread out a bit. I think it was very much engineered to fit around the design and not particularly well.
On my second 75 (2005 Connoisseur diesel, before that a W-reg V6). The V6 was incredibly smooth and quiet, the current one tauter, quicker and noisier, but very economical. Not claustrophobic, but the small boot lid is a problem. At least the back seats fold.
Diesel engines really do not heat up well in the winter, they also typically have a thicker iron engine block. The modern ones flat out can't stay warm enough to heat the cabin when it's really cold. I drove for more than an hour and around 30 miles in below -10C weather in a 2010 Golf 1.6 TDI and except briefly during an uphill motorway section the engine was always below operating temp, usually between 65-75 water temp with the auxiliary heater running. Fuel consumption was almost double what I think it would've been in the summer.
I noticed a Skoda 110R Coupe on eBay a few weeks ago. It was a bit rusty and they wanted 6k for it, but it was sooo hubnut. Sadly it's no longer advertised. :-(
@@MacklandsMotors So true. Though sales for the end-of-line 600 and 800 continued until early 2000 I'm sure. There was quite a lot of T and V reg 600s and 800s around back in the day. Rover were renowned for keeping old stock unused for years before being sold.
Farewell Rita. I hope someone looks after her well. The 75 looks like an evolution of the 600 from the rear quarter view in my eyes. And didn't both the 600 and 800 stay on sale for 2 years after the 75's 1998 launch? There's still a lot of T and V-registered 600's down my way, but not so much 800's now, like there were.
Beautiful car by all accounts. Agree space and practicality are somewhat lacking and look like a nightmare to work on from your various tinkering videos. Heading offshore in Angola tomorrow and thanks for keeping me entertained while I have been in quarantine for last 4 weeks. Look forward to catching up on your exploits when I return.
T25 Toyota Avensis is my recommendation for a replacement. Or a T22 if you want some 90s charm. Same era, would've been a competitor for the 75 at the time. Massive boot, massive legroom, bomb proof reliable and lovely revvy petrol engines that get 40mpg! Ours has been perfect for three years. Just my recommendation for a mega reliable family daily, best car I ever bought 👍👍
A very excellent Ian Seabrook car review worthy of an 80's Top Gear review. Really shows your craft as a journalist even if HubNut is perhaps not about that :-)
Having briefly owned a Rover 75 Club 2.0 CDT (called Roxy), that I initially bought to improve and then sell on, I can definitely agree with you on the good (and not so good) points. I didn't get on well with the heavy clutch (although mine had a leaky slave cylinder) or the gear change. Although the boot looked spacious, looked less so when I stored a bottle of screenwash in there. the ride was very comfortable and I personally found the seats really comfy but it did feel a lot less spacious than my Peugeot 107 (which is a lot smaller) and looking through the windscreen was like looking at the road through a letterbox. All that being said, overall a very nice car, with a few design flaws. I was sad to see Roxy go after just 3 weeks of ownership after failing the MOT and the repair bill would have been more than £900! If I was to own another one I think I would go for an automatic with the same engine.
These are my favourite type of videos from Hub Nut. A detailed review from someone who knows their stuff with Ian's great presentation style. Imagine if BMW had taken on board Rover's skill at getting a comfortable drive how much better their 3 series would have been😁 This Rover has been my favourite car so far in Ian's fleet since I started watching 18 months ago. I've got my fingers crossed that the new family transporter will be as classy as the 75.
I've owned a 75 Tourer for 7 years now. Each spring I look at buying another car and really there's nothing that attracts me enough to want to part with my 75. This is with the proviso that I budget realistically and not into hyper drive with Audis RS4's and Mercedes AMG's
I think they totally nailed the styling. It manages to look both classy and timeless at the same time. Rover may have run out of money but curiously the Phoenix 4 didn't. Small wonder really and a great shame that they lost the public trust. Looking forward to seeing what screeches into the Hubnut fleet next
They look better now than the did when new. My problem with them is that Rover had decided to make a "new" P4 (which was hardly considered advanced when it was launched in the 1940s). Why didn't they try to make a "new" P6? That was a genuinely advanced car, years ahead of its time.
Best mate used to own a Rover 620GSDi, and upgraded to a Rover 75 Connniseur SE diesel. The interior space was far better on the 600, and the 75 did feel you were somewhat "hemmed in" a bit. Also, rubbish footwell room as a passenger too. Although the 600 was the more spacious and reliable car because it was basically a Honda Accord, the 75 nails it for looks and future classic status.
Sounds like your clutch is on the way out, when the clutch is fine, there is nothing wrong with the gear change. It is fitted with the standard Rover Honda derived box, which is a decent unit.
I drove an MG ZT the other day which was exactly the same. I agree the clutch fingers do work harden, and raise the pedal pressure, but if rival cars don't do the same, it's still a failure. it isn't a Rover/Honda gearbox at all but a Getrag unit.
@@HubNut Getrag? Surprising because it looks near identical to the Honda unit. However I am certain it isn't he clutch fingers, the problem will be the hydraulics. Mine was a pig to use till I renewed the master and slave cylinder, which got rid of all the notchiness. Plus you got the wrong engine, the 131bhp models are much nicer to drive and don't use anymore fuel. The only difference is the map but it transforms the car.
Not many ST24s around now sadly. I think a v6 Ghia X would be more Mr HubNut's thing really, comfier suspension. Then again, not many of those around either, a few 3.0 Mk.3s, very few 2.5 Mk.2s. Estates are cavernous, perfect family holiday transport. STTDCis are more than a bit agricultural, but chip for power very well.
Yeah having the indicator as a totally separate entity to the headlight at the bottom of the bumper in the shade makes your signal much more clearly visible.
Some think it would be too slab sided without the chrome strips down the side (the sill bit is the wrong shape, highlighted by black sills - makes the side look deeper - and should have been the entire length) yet the MG ZT without the chrome looks just fine.
I feel that it was a very fitting last hurrah for the Rover styling department. Elegance and style with a great engine. Retro style is a very marmite thing but I think that you are right and it will go down as a classic. I wonder what a remap would bring?
I loved the Rover 75. I think they suffered from build quality issues though. Two I test drove had rattles and buzzes on the dashboard that I just could never have lived with.
Sound comment again - In 3 or 4 places, it appears you've turned things on and started recording immediately. As a result, the auto gain control hasn't had chance to settle on a sound level and the first few words you speak are on the quiet side. By the second sentence, it sounds good. Perhaps a few more rhubarbs before talking sense to be edited out later would help !
The problem you had removing the alternator, is what happens when you fit someone else's engine in your vehicle. I encountered similar things when trying to do an oil change on an FSO Caro 1.9 GLD. The oil filter was a "cosy" fit in the engine bay.....
The drivers seat looks to high to me.. I sit low in mine. Got to tbh when I inherited mine I hated it ,but it's grown on me over time . Love the way it just wafts along..
The boot package was compromised by BMW's insistence on using their axle design, it was recognised what mistake this was. The clutch design was distinctly German and is a common problem on VAG products. I'd rather have a crash in the 75 than the 45 any day. 🤣 Stay safe and well.
When you look in the back of a Rover 75, you wonder if ‘family transport’ was the target market or was it designed for the mid forties middle manager to waft up and down the M1 because mummy had a people carrier. Or maybe it was designed for a retiring couple to travel in comfort and believe you’ve made it in life. That applies also to the estate model or ‘tourer’ whatever that was supposed to mean......and then you saw the Mondeo and yep, it was game over for the Rover.
The 75 has grown on me over the years and I can certainly see your argument for it's take on retro styling being perhaps more pleasing than the s-type (has never been one of my favourites despite my love of Jaguar). You'd have to say the engines available on the Jag are rather more appealing though. That 4.6 v8 75 would be magnificent - if only they werent rare as rockinghorse droppings.
Ian, you DO NOT NEED a T4 diagnostic tool. You can access almost everything on these cars with a pscan diagnostic tool that people can buy from me.
Drat. Sorry for forgetting that yet again!
@@dizzy2020 diesels 2004. I've had european diesels on 53 reg not talking obd2, namely renault trafic and citroen c5
I have a Pscan to work on my MGTF 160. Very useful bit of kit
@@dizzy2020 Rovers had EOBD sockets quite early on, maybe not 800 or 600s been Honda but 400/200/100 had them. My 1998 400 tourer has an EOBD. My T2 diagnostics works a treat on it and LandRover to.
@@dizzy2020 In general MG Rover cars were not EOBD compliant until they absolutely had to be. The diesel 75/ZT wasn't EOBD compliant until I think late 2004. Some other notes:-
1. EOBD only covers the engine ECU, whereas pscan covers engine, transmission, ABS, immobiliser, BCU.
2. Even on the engine EOBD only has to support the "emissions" related information. If you connect the engine ECU in Rover proprietary mode you can access a lot more information that you can in EOBD mode.
Gentleman steps out of an Invacar. Then he enters a flagship Rover and says, "this is claustrophobic!"
I've got to admit, the Rover 75 does not look dated for a 20 year old car
It doesn’t and it’s hard to believe it is a 20 year old car. Shame really had Rover been saved wonder what could of been?!?
@@matty6848 If you'd ever been anywhere near Cowley you'd know that they were in such a downward spiral any kind of rescue was out of the question.
I agree it's a shame but the 60/70's Socialism destroyed a lot of manufacturing in this country, combined with dismal management and an almost total lack of creativity/imagination.
I think it looks like a retro car, isn't that the point?
@@yekateradiffin5939 I'm 66, it looks positively modern to me.
@@philiplindley7384 I know Phil I used to work at the Longbridge plant on the maintenance. Once I finished my apprenticeship I took my voluntary redundancy because even at a mere 21 and pretty clueless I could see what was coming. I left when BMW pulled out, they offered 7k redundancy & living at home with my parents 7k back 2000 was a nice chunk of money. I remember the old boys saying to me “this place will never shut down” & two years after I left Rover literally went bust overnight. Talking to some of the guys who were there to the end they said the last 18 months the track what we called aka the production line hardly moved. They’d build about 15/20 cars in a 8 hour shift where as a few years before they were building 40 cars a hour. I think most knew deep down it was going to happen but we’re in denial. Me, I took my cheque for 7k and went travelling round Asia & Australia for a year. Ironically enough since you’ve mentioned Cowley the now Mini plant I work there occasionally as a sub contractor servicing all the production machinery. I now work sub contracting for the ex firm, that trained me up but instead of Rover 75s and 800s being built it’s the Mini. Don’t know if you’ve ever been through Longbridge recently but the area is unrecognisable from 10 years ago. Now it’s mostly modern housing Estates, pensioner villages and a shopping village called “Longbridge village” nice touch is they’ve named the new housing estate roads of the roads that existed in the factory before it was torn down as remembrance to the history of the area, generations of families were employed at Rover including my Own. when it shut it decimated the area, There were even Cadbury workers turning up at Cofton park in support of the Rover workers who lost their jobs, as Cadbury’s Bournville is only a few mile up the road & many had families working there. There’s a good documentary on UA-cam called “Rover the Long Goodbye” basically explains how Rover was a dying company from the 70s strike action era & how Rover never really recovered from it. Well sorry to go on but just thought you’d find that interesting? Thanks for reading🙂👍
"Most people aren't racing drivers" - never a truer word said! There's so much emphasis on performance nowadays it's completely lost touch with reality.
Agreed.
Just replaced all the shocks on my car to pass the MOT. Yes it feels more 'planted' and 'controled' preferred it before though.
Remember the Rover brand was for luxury cruising and the MG brand was for the people who wanted to be racing drivers.
This is why people have turned to SUVs. Its the only way you can get a comfortable ride these days. Rewind back 20 years ago and most cars had respectable suspension travel and dampening. Now thanks to modern motoring journalism almost every non suv saloon or hatch has piss poor ground clearance and harsh sporty suspension
Hope your next car hasn't got a seized engine and fire damage.
You're obviously at the " It's not you, it's me " stage of the relationship
Nah let’s get down to it - it’s you lol!
It's been a great series watching you and your Rover 75.
I've had mine now for a good few years and it's been really reliable, but when thing's do go wrong they can cause a real headache and open wallet surgery to get it back in fine fettle.
Saying that though, I just can't bare to part with it.
In my eyes it just looks fantastic to look at, and the drive is so relaxed and comfortable. Even the interior has got that touch of luxury about it all..
Let's hope Rita the Rover goes to a good home and will continue to live for many years to come, as these car's are starting to become a rare sight on our roads now 👍👌🇬🇧
I had two from new, including the MG version. They were very comfortable, relaxing to drive and well equipped. The first one came with satnav and televisions when both were unheard of in mainstream vehicles.
What i really like in that ROVER 75 is its dashboard, and more precisely its speedometer & revmeter! they're SUPERB !!!! And the clock in the middle 👍
Yes those oval speedometers👍
The Rover 75 is one of the rare near-perfect cars in my book.
Sad to hear you and Rita are set to part company, however.
All the best to both of you on your separate ways nonetheless.
Lovely, classy looking car. Prefer the tourer, the light blue one Mr Furious drove a while ago was a gorgeous example.
That's what I've got; a light blue Rover 75 Tourer with diesel engine..it's a beautiful car to drive.
This is a nice looking car. I cannot believe there were so many engine options, including a 4.6 L V8.
Can't help feel you'd be better off with an early/mid 90s Volvo estate for the family-luggin/winter duties
Is the infamous Eccles, still shunned by the general public?
@@mastercylinder1939 There are no infamous Eccles's - they're all famous
@@preston963 As opposed to what?
Or even better, a SAAB
I still remember Clarkson saying "75 is the minimum age for the driver"
I still remember Clarkson saying "The BBC will never sack me"...🤣
@@tonyfairhurst4650 lets be honest, the BBC no longer represent the British people, it’s now just a new world order propaganda machine. One of their biggest mistakes was sacking Clarkson, Top Gear is now a third rate motor show that I can’t even be arsed to watch! And the Grand Tour isn’t much better.
He is a tool
@@mastercylinder1939 Didn't these 'car shows' become entertainment programs for people who know nothing about cars? What a waste of an hour.
@@mastercylinder1939 They hijacked the old Tif Needell _et al._ show to make the Clarkson fantasy spectacle. Seems punters demanded it. The old programme helped you choose or fix a motor-JC made it his own vanity project for his humungous ego, to entertain immature 'lads' who loved seeing cars thrown through the air for kicks, etc. BBC claimed there was no appetite among viewers for a basic motoring show any more, yet amazingly Ian and several other notables draw in thousands of subscribers like us. Go figure...
I remember the italians love the 75. I seem to remember them voting it one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
For a few years, I had the Peugeot equivalent of the '75', the '406' in Executive trim. Unfortunately it was the petrol version and although it went like the clappers, even when driven moderately, the fuel consumption was not good. However, with all the toys you could wish for, the most gorgeous soft leather upholstery and an oh so sublime ride, I put on 147,000 miles in it before the cost of a new clutch made me part with it in '07. The irony is that I part-exed it locally (the dealership told me it was the best example they'd seen) and I see it out on the road still and it's 23 years old now!
I agree with most of your thoughts!
I had the MG ZT 1.8T which has the k series petrol engine with a little turbo to slightly boost the power to 160bhp. It was a lovely car to drive, handled really nice, a good compromise of firmness and comfort, ideal family car, very roomy with an adequate size boot, we did a few family holidays in it without issue. The boot did fill up with water once when I left it standing but never had any issues when it was in daily use!
The clutch was very hard and I believe a common issue which can be resolved.
Economy was brilliant , road tax quite reasonable and insurance surprisingly cheap, lots of high end features, good audio system, blaupunct cd changer, electric windows all round etc
For it's size it was quite nimble and very agile, definitely surprised me a few times.
I also had the s type jaguar although that was a 3.0 v6 auto obviously it was slightly more luxurious inside but the MG ZT compared well on terms of comfort and driving but without the expense and thirst of the jag lol 👍😎😁
I honestly wished I'd kept it, getting very rare on the road these days! 😎👍
Edit - just thought I'd add they've aged really well and don't look particularly dated in my honest opinion!
My mother in law had one, same colour but with the V6, full cream leather too, very nice motor 👍🏻
I'm not a huge fan of Rover, but I think they absolutely nailed the styling on the 75. Easily one of the better looking saloons at the time, & even nicer in estate form. It was the one Rover I was kinda half tempted to buy, but ultimately didn't. Will you keep it?
The forward "tilt" of the seats was also a problem for me with my T4's. I solved it by adding a few heavty washers under the front fixing bolts. Works like a dream.
Edit: the T4 's I refer to are a 2001 VW T4 Multivan and a 2001 VW T4 California campervan.
With a car of that spec, I am surprised there is no seat height adjustment on it. Even our base model 1981 Volvo 240 had that. It was manually done, with two levers under the driver's seat, with front and rear of the cushion each having 3 positions. The same was true on the passenger seat, but you needed a socket to remove the bolts.
Very accurate review of the 75, and I loved my Tourer. As it was a Diesel Automatic, had non of the gearbox/clutch issues. Not the fastest or most spacious but as Ian says, it's a thoroughly nice place to cover the miles
You could have upgraded it with a BMW ECU to put out 168hp.
Besides that the Tourer Diesel Auto was clearly the best choice. Loved the fact that you could only open the rear window without bothering with the tailgate. Nice touch adopted from the 5 series BMW.
Nice balanced review Ian, you've cited all the pain points with these. I'm on my 3rd one now, all diesel, a V6 auto is definitely one I'd like to try!
I have not heard one good thing about the V6. As i said elsewhere you can get a BMW ECU for the diesel that ups the power to 168hp.
@@gustavmeyrink_2.0 It's simply a remap and a removal of the EGR. Mine has this modification and it's well worth it, works especially well with the auto gearbox.
The V6 is super smooth and sounds fantastic. Had a 45 with that engine and it was just lovely. One I should not have sold.
@@gustavmeyrink_2.0 I haven t heard one bad thing about the V6. Engine is reliable, there are no head gasket problems, unlike the K4. The 2.0 is indeed a bit obsolete, the 2.5 has about the same costs of ownership as the 2.0, but it s more beefier and the more wanted setup.
We had a 1.4 2002 Rover 45 for about 6 years years. It was reliable (alternator failure and air con leaks was about it for troubles, after we solved a cooling problem left by the previous owner). It always felt firmly planted on the road, even on adverse camber bends. However it lacked low end torque so hill starts involved lots of clutch wear, the gearbox was slow and unpleasant to use. We sold it a few years ago and it ran on for two more years before chassis rust got the better of it. And there's the point: Rover 45s can look spotless from the outside but suffer from bad rust underneath, so if you're buying one, be careful.
I think had the motor industry in the UK not been nationalised and consolidated into one big group, a number of the old marques would still be here today, including Rover, but it was just one huge mistake after another given it was all management-run for the big bucks rather than run by the people who knew what a car should be...
@M Bacon But even in early times the independent companies sourced components, large and small, from different companies. Its why its called assembly line. some went vertically integrated and others acquired others starting in the 1920s!
How about a nice old Jag next Ian to keep the luxury end of the hub nut fleet going where Rita will leave a gap? An XJ of some sort perhaps?
All manual cars have concentric clutch slave cylinders these days. I agree they are an expensive PITA, and they are all plastic including the master cylinder/pedal box and they all break far too easily. It's not a Rover problem its an industry problem....or not a problem as it gives them lots of work fixing them, and makes people scrap otherwise good cars because of the cost of repair.
Thanks for not totally slating the 75 completely Ian , there are many avid followers of this wonderful British motor car including myself 🏴
Certainly a car I’d like to own if I had the space for another one. I think they look simply stunning and I agree that colour is beautiful. I also liked them in both the dark and very light blues.
I love the rover 75s, had a lovely 2.5v6 auto one and loved every minute of driving it..
🙂🙂.
I remember the (UK) press of the time comparing this favourably with almost all the competition - Accord, 5 series, E class, Camry, Laguna, C5, etc.
Hmm.
I think you should have included the dire politics going on with Rover vs BMW at the time. It's really hard working with a German company which, on the one hand, says you should make a profit but on the other tells you NOT to take sales from the 3-Series under any circumstances. It must have been very difficult for the engineers and management.
Yes as the 75 was really in the 3 series segment
I liked the styling when they came out, and still do. It looks just lovely from some angles. Only slightly let down by some styling features, such as those fog lights.
My dad owned a 2001 petrol engine. It had no umph, but it did ride well and was quiet inside. A major plus was the air con, it would be icy cool inside even on the hottest days.
It was starting to rust badly underneath by its 10th year, and finally the head gasket failed.
Not a bad car, perfect for my old man, who really liked it I think.
I have had 5 of these over the years, including a brand new one in 2000. Funny story time, my wife bought me a private plate (T100RON) which I wanted to have put on the Rover when I picked it up. I made my own plate up (to shape the rear). When I took it in to reception the lady said oh that’s a good plate. She then asked my name! In my best trigger voice I looked her in the eye and said “Dave”.... This was a 1.8 litre petrol which had loads of extras - it was a show car - in a beautiful shade of petrol. In later years I had several 2.5 litre petrol and the diesel above. Without doubt the best new car I have ever bought. I will doubtless get another sone point. Really enjoyed watching your ownership, the work you have done and your views. Thank you!
Dear Hubnut .
I first saw a 75 here in Holland in 1999 and I remember my jaw dropping to the concrete .
But gosh , they were expensive !
Well , five years ago after a lot of shit with my Nissan , I had enough !
I collected all my Dutch courage and bought one .
Its a Cowley built 1.8 Connoseur , Arden green with Sandstone leather interior and automatic tranny .
I did 50K miles with it , and I am HOOKED .
This Britt Beauty is still rustfree and that big K runs like a Swiss clockwork , so smooth and silent .
And yes , I had the headgasket replaced immediatly after purchase with the multi layer steel gasket , and it was perfect from day one .
I love its chroombits and real wallnut dash , the 50s style Bentleyseats , that one of a kind instrumentpanel .
But most off all I love its stiff upperlip aprouch to hard sidewind or worn out tracks in the road surface , it goes strait ahead like a train even at 90 miles an hour .
Its a wonderfull car with loads of caracter and stile only Brittish cars seem to posess .
I will keep it alive as long as I can even if I have to spend thousands of Euro's , thats how much I got attached to this amazing jewel of a car .
I remember my colleges five years ago , smiling about that idiot that bought an old Rover .
Well , they don't smile anymore ..............
I am on my 3rd Rover 75 , I currently have the CDT .I had the 2.5 V 6 manual , previous to that one was another CDT. The 2.5 was a Connie in moonstone green , my first CDT was a black Classic.My current one is also a Classic moonstone green colour. Before I got my 75 I had 2 45's a MG ZR 2.0 TD , and a Rover 25. I obviously didn't have them all at the same time! What can I say I like Rover's faults and all!
I heard you say you preferred the Rover 45 to the 75. I have a 45 and last year it wasnt running very well and my garage told me it would cost £1,500 to fix it , so I seriously considered getting a 75. However, though I like the 75 its a bit too big for me, it's only me and my girlfriend and my 1.4 45 is so cheap to run and I couldn't think of any other car I preferred so I fixed it myself for £300 during lockdown and I'm glad I did. It was only a leaking valve, but while I had it in bits I reground all the valves, fitted new oil seals , new piston rings, new head gasket with updated bolts, new water pump, cambelt and battery. It's a very nice little car, refined yet cheap to run.
Ian, the upper door trim is close so the side airbags, if it has them, can be right next to your head, so it can be knocked off by said airbags in case of a crash...BRILLIANT!
If no airbags, that way so you are closer to the action when something happens...enjoy...I suggest a helmet.
I had a Y reg 2.5 V6 automatic connoisseur se some years ago. The V6 complimented the ride and refinement perfectly. It was used as our main family car to transport my wife and I plus three kids. It even swallowed all our luggage and Christmas presents for a Christmas away one year, so I'm surprised you find the boot inadequate and the interior claustrophobic. These were a good car torpedoed on launch day by BMW at the British motor show.
My experience of a Rover 75. I remember travelling in the back of a family friends 75. A 75 tourer turbo diesel. At first I was very impressed. Nice interior, quiet engine. Reasonable performance and acceptable room. Think we had a 3 series at the time and the Rover felt plusher. Then we got to a B road and all I could think was how long to my destination. I don't feel well. The car wallowed. My mum also in the back felt bad too! Their kids were in our car. Neither of us fought to ride in it on the way home. In the back of the 3 series there was no nausea. We had to make up an excuse to avoid travelling back from our walk in it to not disappoint our friend. Then next experience was when someone on my street at uni got one. It didn't idle well so he had to rev it but it was the V6 so I'm glad he did as it made a good noise. I'd definitely opt for a V6. Maybe the ZT suspension would suit me better. Best car on that road was an E39 5 series. Made it feel like there was no bumps or undulations in it and no corners either. Nothing else has been as good.
I ended up with a ZT -T V6. 10 years ago. It had allegedly been built for one of the Phoenix people and was loaded with every option including flip paint which extended to where the wood is in yours.
It was a more than capable load lugger. I got it because I needed something cheap and big for a house rebuild.
It made me slightly sad. It had 170,000 hard miles under its wheels and was tatty and rough around the edges. I forgave it the few faults it threw up. It made me sad because you could tell that when it was new, it really was something rather special with its massive spec sheet, Longbridge service department service stamps and "BX" registration.
I am so glad I can say I owned one, but with waterlogged electrics, less than great brakes and that complex VANOS? thing. It is not a car I'd have again.
That's a fair review, I had mine from new to 15 years old, it was a superlative cruiser. I could get in, set off and 300 miles felt like nothing. As for its flaws: the Bosch fan, the rear-light gaskets, the sun-roof drains, it ate front tyres and brake pads. The ABS sensor, the alternator (thanks oil filter), the ECU mount and 'drain' plugs. I didn't feel claustrophic at all though and I would say the Connoisseur had tilt and slide seats with lumber adjustment - they were the nuts in terms of support and comfort. 195,000 miles later - worth much less than a bag of sand and a likely MOT fail needing all new discs, pads and shocks (£1400) - that was it. Glad you got something from it - they are a 'specialist' car because of the engine layout, they are all transverse, so they are a pig to work on.
I had an MG ZT diesel for 6 years. Pretty reliable until it got flooded. I loved it. Most of the flaws you mention didnt bother me. Mine was a 130bhp model but had a tune to ~160bhp via the owners club. Made it much better to drive.
At a smidge under 6' 4" 'cramped' is absolutely not how I would describe the 75 diesel estate I had.
I also found the electrically adjustable, heated leather seats to be very comfortable. On the whole very reliable for the 6 years I had it once you take care of the weak spots (ECU flooding and fuel pump death if run consistently with
Ok, you've redeemed yourself. I'll forgive you for the Alternator fiasco!. One man's claustrophobic is another man's cozy and the feeling of being enveloped in a warm safe world. The first 75 I ever travelled in was in Yorkshire on a late September evening. Even 20 years on I remember that trip like it was yesterday, it made such an impression.
The Webasto is a great piece of kit that can be repaired with a bit of time and patience. It wasn't just Rover fitting such devices as BMW and Volkswagen were keen users!. My 75 with the FBH warns up quicker than my petrol Volvo 940 and that's quick at warming up (just ask Peter Simpson how great they are). My two have Freelander temperature sensors that trigger the FBH at a higher ambient temperature, a worthwhile upgrade.
During the course of my job I get to drive all manner of makes and models and I'm genuinely going to struggle to replace my daily 75! A Volvo V70 is the closest I can find to anything I like, but for me the 75 will reign supreme!
I very much look forward to your next purchase. Your channel is addictive! Keep up the excellent and entertaining work.
i´ve had a 75 and Your words at 16:00 nailed it! that´s exactly what I loved about the car.
That's a very fair and reasoned assessment. I briefly had a £500 Rover 75 V6 Connoisseur. It was lovely to drive but had rusted badly underneath and so had to go. I now have a contemporary - 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 2.0TS - beautiful styling and lusty engine. £1000 and not too much rust - could be a keeper!
Loved following the Rita series. If you happen to be in Scotland when some sort of normality returns you are more than welcome to have a shot of my ZT to see how you feel about Rita’s slightly more spicy sibling. Looking forward to whatever the replacement will be 👍🏻
I had a 2 litre V6 petrol Conoisseur and it was fabulous, at 5' 11' I didn't find cramped at all, it was graceful, powerful and great on fuel for a big petrol car, the only things I had problems with was a slow electric window, not a brilliant heater, but a very cold aircon, and it would snap suspension springs( but they are cheap), I would have another if I had garage space....
Point of note to HubNut. Tesla is currently profitable, although this mainly comes from selling regulatory credits to other carmarkers. ($1.6 billion in 2020).
I like your comments on the size of the Rover 75. Some years ago, a caravanning friend of mine had a Rover 75, whilst I had a 2000 Astra G Saloon. Both in a similar dark red metallic. One day, we happened to park the two vehicles side by side, and our conversation immediately turned to the size of each vehicle. We both decided there was nothing to choose between the two of them, both were almost identical in size. So the largest vehicle in the Rover range was the same size as the next to the smallest in the Vauxhall fleet. Peculiar that!
There's over 20 inches extra length in the Rover...
My dad had the V6 75 and he loved it. It had a few minor faults he had to rectify but nothing major. He said it’s was powerful and comfort in another level. Trouble is the 75 was too little too late, the damage had already Been done to Rover by the stage it was released.
I owned a 75 diesel, low milage and A1 condition, never really warmed to it, my heart belonged to a Rover 800 that I'd owned a few years before the 75. The 800 was a 1996 KV6 auto, SLI, I loved it, I still wish that I'd kept the 800.
My father-in-law had one for a short time, a 1.8 petrol Club. I got out of a Fiat 500, into the Rover, and wondered where all the space had gone. As you say, claustrophobic. I'm not tall, but found myself ducking down to look out of the windscreen, with the seat at its lowest setting. I found the oval dials difficult to read. I suppose once you got used to it, the needle position would be enough, but driving it a short journey, once a month was not something to look forward to. But trying to cram him, or my partner into the back of a 500 was more challenging. Underbonnet access is difficult on everything these days, the Rover was a little ahead of its time there.
Its amazing that you still see a few of these Rover 75's and the other MG Rover models around Longbridge and other parts of the West Midlands.
Think they looked good at the time and even now. The MG 190s were fun to drive
I remember this bloke at work bought one when they were new and showed me around it. He loved it but I couldn't really fit in it comfortably. He was about 5'6 and I'm 6'2.
I had one, almost from new. I have owned far too many cars but it was one of the best cars I ever had. I was told to sell it by a bodyshop that were repairing a boot lid following an accident - they said spares would be almost impossible to find in the future. Selling it was a huge mistake.
My current car is a 45, a vehicle I derided in the snobbery of my youth. I have to say, it's really good, the interior space is slightly too small for my needs and some of the switchgear wouldn't look out of place in a Triumph Acclaim, but it's one of the best cars I've had.
I really like your videos! I have never driven a 75, but I always loved its beauty. Maybe I should buy one as soon as possible... At the moment, they are almost giving them away in the Netherlands where I live. Prices starting at 350 euros.... Greetings from Holland, Maarten
I love the styling! The headlights and the line above them is pretty smart design, is a very good retro/modern car. Sad i can't afford one, here are for sale used at u$s9k 😩
Very nice car which has a lot of supporters here in Germany. Every day on my way to work I see a 75 V6 in the same colour.
To be honest - I don’t think the diesel was ever considered a prestige version of this model. The tourer did have lots more space and I was never short of storage. To me, the V6 in the 190 version was the one to go for. The V8 was just crazy and I went back to a V6. Still miss it in many ways!
One of my favourite details on the 75 is the headlights, they have the outline of a regular lamp unit shape around the bonnet and headlight, which meant they could apply the same design to the 25 and 45, giving them the corporate nose but without changing the old sheet metal - Very clever.
I've owned a ZT diesel, and by the sounds of Ian's praising of the supple ride I suspect he'd not be too impressed by the ZT's suspension set-up! I had to replace the wheels on my ZT, I suspect due to the hard suspension taking its toll on the rims and damaging them prior to my ownership which meant lots of flat tire incidents. I really liked that car, even after experiencing the failed slave cylinder fault needing a new clutch.
Nice final summation. I can see why you're letting Rita go but she isn't leaving in disgrace by any means. My feeling is that the 75 (like many future classics) needs a few years yet to be truly appreciated. It almost needs to be forgotten so it can be rediscovered and properly appreciated. But nobody can really afford to or be bothered to hang on to cars long enough for this to happen. You'll at least be able to look at these videos in 40 or 50 years and marvel at what a lovely looking car it was and will remain.
Yours is a wonderful channel and I wish that it may long continue. I'm unable, at present, to donate or, become a patreon however, I do share your videos and, I also watch the adverts, which, by doing so I understand helps the channel. I would urge other viewers, who may find themselves in my situation, to do the same. Many thanks for the varied and entertaining content. Big thumbs up.
I also I have a Rover 75, though mine is the 1.8 Kettle Series, I do agree with most of the points you make. I dont get the claustrophobia as much because, being taller, I tend to sit with the seat all the way down. But with the seat set for me the back seats are near on impossible to use for people.
I always find Rover clutches heavy and a bit unforgiving.
The main things I like are, how quiet it is, super soft suspension and the fact at 6ft7 I can spread out a bit.
I think it was very much engineered to fit around the design and not particularly well.
On my second 75 (2005 Connoisseur diesel, before that a W-reg V6). The V6 was incredibly smooth and quiet, the current one tauter, quicker and noisier, but very economical. Not claustrophobic, but the small boot lid is a problem. At least the back seats fold.
Diesel engines really do not heat up well in the winter, they also typically have a thicker iron engine block.
The modern ones flat out can't stay warm enough to heat the cabin when it's really cold. I drove for more than an hour and around 30 miles in below -10C weather in a 2010 Golf 1.6 TDI and except briefly during an uphill motorway section the engine was always below operating temp, usually between 65-75 water temp with the auxiliary heater running. Fuel consumption was almost double what I think it would've been in the summer.
I noticed a Skoda 110R Coupe on eBay a few weeks ago. It was a bit rusty and they wanted 6k for it, but it was sooo hubnut. Sadly it's no longer advertised. :-(
Lovely Jubbly video Mr HubNut, didn't the 75 replace the 600?
The 600 and 800 were phased out and replaced by the 75
@@MacklandsMotors So true. Though sales for the end-of-line 600 and 800 continued until early 2000 I'm sure. There was quite a lot of T and V reg 600s and 800s around back in the day. Rover were renowned for keeping old stock unused for years before being sold.
Farewell Rita. I hope someone looks after her well. The 75 looks like an evolution of the 600 from the rear quarter view in my eyes. And didn't both the 600 and 800 stay on sale for 2 years after the 75's 1998 launch? There's still a lot of T and V-registered 600's down my way, but not so much 800's now, like there were.
You need to try a Passat estate, lots of room, space etc.
I really came to like these when they featured in a PS2 game set in London: "Oi, 'Arris!"
Look forward to seeing the next addition to the fleet.
Designed to make the 5 series even more appealing than it already was?
Beautiful car by all accounts. Agree space and practicality are somewhat lacking and look like a nightmare to work on from your various tinkering videos.
Heading offshore in Angola tomorrow and thanks for keeping me entertained while I have been in quarantine for last 4 weeks. Look forward to catching up on your exploits when I return.
T25 Toyota Avensis is my recommendation for a replacement. Or a T22 if you want some 90s charm.
Same era, would've been a competitor for the 75 at the time. Massive boot, massive legroom, bomb proof reliable and lovely revvy petrol engines that get 40mpg!
Ours has been perfect for three years. Just my recommendation for a mega reliable family daily, best car I ever bought 👍👍
A very excellent Ian Seabrook car review worthy of an 80's Top Gear review. Really shows your craft as a journalist even if HubNut is perhaps not about that :-)
Thank you.
Having briefly owned a Rover 75 Club 2.0 CDT (called Roxy), that I initially bought to improve and then sell on, I can definitely agree with you on the good (and not so good) points. I didn't get on well with the heavy clutch (although mine had a leaky slave cylinder) or the gear change. Although the boot looked spacious, looked less so when I stored a bottle of screenwash in there. the ride was very comfortable and I personally found the seats really comfy but it did feel a lot less spacious than my Peugeot 107 (which is a lot smaller) and looking through the windscreen was like looking at the road through a letterbox. All that being said, overall a very nice car, with a few design flaws. I was sad to see Roxy go after just 3 weeks of ownership after failing the MOT and the repair bill would have been more than £900! If I was to own another one I think I would go for an automatic with the same engine.
These are my favourite type of videos from Hub Nut. A detailed review from someone who knows their stuff with Ian's great presentation style. Imagine if BMW had taken on board Rover's skill at getting a comfortable drive how much better their 3 series would have been😁
This Rover has been my favourite car so far in Ian's fleet since I started watching 18 months ago. I've got my fingers crossed that the new family transporter will be as classy as the 75.
I've owned a 75 Tourer for 7 years now. Each spring I look at buying another car and really there's nothing that attracts me enough to want to part with my 75. This is with the proviso that I budget realistically and not into hyper drive with Audis RS4's and Mercedes AMG's
I think they totally nailed the styling. It manages to look both classy and timeless at the same time.
Rover may have run out of money but curiously the Phoenix 4 didn't. Small wonder really and a great shame that they lost the public trust.
Looking forward to seeing what screeches into the Hubnut fleet next
They look better now than the did when new. My problem with them is that Rover had decided to make a "new" P4 (which was hardly considered advanced when it was launched in the 1940s). Why didn't they try to make a "new" P6? That was a genuinely advanced car, years ahead of its time.
Best mate used to own a Rover 620GSDi, and upgraded to a Rover 75 Connniseur SE diesel. The interior space was far better on the 600, and the 75 did feel you were somewhat "hemmed in" a bit. Also, rubbish footwell room as a passenger too. Although the 600 was the more spacious and reliable car because it was basically a Honda Accord, the 75 nails it for looks and future classic status.
Non-sporty Saab 9-5 wagon? Good ride, comfy seats, excellent rear leg room and headlight wipers on early cars. No triangle of doom.
Sounds like your clutch is on the way out, when the clutch is fine, there is nothing wrong with the gear change. It is fitted with the standard Rover Honda derived box, which is a decent unit.
I drove an MG ZT the other day which was exactly the same. I agree the clutch fingers do work harden, and raise the pedal pressure, but if rival cars don't do the same, it's still a failure. it isn't a Rover/Honda gearbox at all but a Getrag unit.
@@HubNut Getrag? Surprising because it looks near identical to the Honda unit.
However I am certain it isn't he clutch fingers, the problem will be the hydraulics. Mine was a pig to use till I renewed the master and slave cylinder, which got rid of all the notchiness.
Plus you got the wrong engine, the 131bhp models are much nicer to drive and don't use anymore fuel. The only difference is the map but it transforms the car.
Yo are so right - it was classic when it was in production! A rare event. I think the 75's farcical history actually adds to it's appeal.
I think the next time I go car-shopping, I'll say "I want something with a classy, old snout," and see what kind of reactions I get...
I had a Jaguar X-type which was lovely and I think its one you might like.
He did review an X Type a while ago.
@@Wehiremonkeys Now you mention it I think I recall that. Oh well :D
The rovers departing, I do hope the replacement is a Mondeo, ST24 perhaps..I can dream cant I.. Great video, best wishes.
Not many ST24s around now sadly. I think a v6 Ghia X would be more Mr HubNut's thing really, comfier suspension. Then again, not many of those around either, a few 3.0 Mk.3s, very few 2.5 Mk.2s. Estates are cavernous, perfect family holiday transport. STTDCis are more than a bit agricultural, but chip for power very well.
Yeah having the indicator as a totally separate entity to the headlight at the bottom of the bumper in the shade makes your signal much more clearly visible.
Some think it would be too slab sided without the chrome strips down the side (the sill bit is the wrong shape, highlighted by black sills - makes the side look deeper - and should have been the entire length) yet the MG ZT without the chrome looks just fine.
I feel that it was a very fitting last hurrah for the Rover styling department. Elegance and style with a great engine. Retro style is a very marmite thing but I think that you are right and it will go down as a classic. I wonder what a remap would bring?
I loved the Rover 75. I think they suffered from build quality issues though. Two I test drove had rattles and buzzes on the dashboard that I just could never have lived with.
The front end is indeed nicely styled. Those flattened tops to the headlights give it a purposeful almost slightly aggressive look.
Sound comment again - In 3 or 4 places, it appears you've turned things on and started recording immediately. As a result, the auto gain control hasn't had chance to settle on a sound level and the first few words you speak are on the quiet side. By the second sentence, it sounds good.
Perhaps a few more rhubarbs before talking sense to be edited out later would help !
The problem you had removing the alternator, is what happens when you fit someone else's engine in your vehicle. I encountered similar things when trying to do an oil change on an FSO Caro 1.9 GLD. The oil filter was a "cosy" fit in the engine bay.....
The drivers seat looks to high to me..
I sit low in mine.
Got to tbh when I inherited mine I hated it ,but it's grown on me over time .
Love the way it just wafts along..
The boot package was compromised by BMW's insistence on using their axle design, it was recognised what mistake this was. The clutch design was distinctly German and is a common problem on VAG products. I'd rather have a crash in the 75 than the 45 any day. 🤣 Stay safe and well.
When you look in the back of a Rover 75, you wonder if ‘family transport’ was the target market or was it designed for the mid forties middle manager to waft up and down the M1 because mummy had a people carrier. Or maybe it was designed for a retiring couple to travel in comfort and believe you’ve made it in life. That applies also to the estate model or ‘tourer’ whatever that was supposed to mean......and then you saw the Mondeo and yep, it was game over for the Rover.
I drove contemporary Mondeos a few times. There is no way I'd pick one of those pigs over the 75 Tourer I had.
The 75 has grown on me over the years and I can certainly see your argument for it's take on retro styling being perhaps more pleasing than the s-type (has never been one of my favourites despite my love of Jaguar). You'd have to say the engines available on the Jag are rather more appealing though. That 4.6 v8 75 would be magnificent - if only they werent rare as rockinghorse droppings.