SPECIALIST CARS - ENTHUSIAST BUYERS

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Market Auction

1993 Rover Metro 1.1L

At a Glance

Low mileage | Only 1 former keeper | Extraordinary condition | Market Auction - Seller Created Auction

  • Mileage~34,181 miles on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.1L
  • LocationRedcar

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

MARKET AUCTION

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£1,000
See Bidding
Register TO BID

MARKET AUCTION

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

See Bidding
Video #2

Introduction

An absolute time capsule that turns heads and sparks nostalgia wherever it goes - from local shows to everyday streets. It’s factory-spec, full of charm, and packed with period-correct details that bring the '90s vividly back to life!

I’ve owned this Rover Metro 1.1L since February 2020 - over five years - and it’s been an incredibly rewarding part of our lives. From recommissioning it mechanically to carefully preserving its originality, the car has been looked after with genuine care and pride. Taking it to local classic car shows has been a real highlight: it always turns heads and sparks fond memories, especially as these once-common sights are now rare, with only around 40 1.1L examples still on the road.

Named Best Small Hatchback in What Car? Magazine’s 1991 awards, the Metro 1.1L was praised for its transformation in ride, performance, and quality; and this example still reflects that today. Unmodified and true to factory spec, it’s a time capsule of early ‘90s British motoring. The only reason for sale is a lack of space to store the car. It’s been a pleasure to own and preserve, and I’d love for it to go to someone who’ll value it as much as we have.

Market Auction

Paul, the seller, has created this listing themselves using our free Market Auction tool. Unlike our Curated Auctions, we haven’t photographed the car or written the listing, however we have completed 3 important security checks for your peace of mind.

V5C Checked

Paul provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Paul provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

V5C Checked

Paul provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Paul provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

A beautifully maintained Rover Metro with striking gloss finish, original unmarked wheel trims, and authentic period details - including dealership stickers and plates - to delight any classic enthusiast.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with 13" steel wheels bearing original, unmarked Rover trims, the wheels show only tarnishing visible behind the trims on close inspection.

The car rides on four identical Goodyear tyres with just 300 miles of gentle use, and the unused spare is the original Dunlop.

Overall wheel condition is excellent for age, combining authenticity with near-new performance.

Bodywork

The body is rock-solid with no rust or corrosion anywhere; no doubt testament to having been garaged all its life.

There are period repair colour mismatches on the front left wing and rear wheel arches, plus a few marks from adjacent car door openings. Otherwise, panels sit true and straight, retaining original lines and structure.

Paint

Finished in its original factory hue of Flame Red, the paint remains glossy having been machine polished and a Gyeon Q2 One ceramic coating applied.

Under scrutiny you’ll spot some uneven fading, a few stone chips, and micro-scratches from past use.

Despite this patina of age, the overall sheen is exceptional.

Glass and Trim

All glass is sound, with no chips or cracks, and retains its original factory markings.

The plastic trim and bumpers are in good condition overall, with only minor marks on some edges.

The chrome trim line shows light discolouration in places, consistent with age.

Genuine Rover mudflaps have been fitted to help protect the underside from road spray and debris, and original dealership window stickers and number plates remain in place, adding to the car’s authentic period charm.

VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Impeccably original and unrestored, this Metro’s cabin feels almost fresh off the factory line—no wear, no odors, and every detail from the rubber floor mats to the cassette radio remains as Rover intended.

Seats and Carpets

The cloth seats and door cards are completely free of rips, tears, splits, or wear; upholstery remains taut with factory stitching intact.

Headlining is clean and firmly fitted.

The carpets show no staining or matting, and original Rover rubber floor mats front and rear protect the footwells perfectly.

With no smoking or pets ever onboard, the cabin air is pristine and the fabric looks as good today as it did at first delivery.

Dashboard

The dash retains its original finish with crisp labelling and no cracking or splitting across the surface. Only a hint of discoloration around the binnacle edges and steering column betrays its age.

All switches and controls operate smoothly, and the factory Rover radio cassette player is fully functional, adding authentic period charm without aftermarket alterations.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Both the steering wheel and gear lever are original fitments, showing minimal use and no surface deterioration. The wheel’s rim is smooth with no scuffs or peeling. The gear stick remains firm in its gaiter, with clean knob detailing—again confirming the car’s exceptionally low interior wear.

VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Completely original and unmodified, this Metro starts first time, runs cleanly, and delivers a dependable, refined drive every time - true to how Rover intended it.

Engine and Gearbox

The original 1118 cc K Series engine remains in excellent mechanical health, with no smoke, rattles, or unwanted noises. Always starts first time, hot or cold, and runs smoothly through all revs.

The gearbox is original and shifts cleanly with no crunching or stiffness.

Regular maintenance has ensured reliable operation, and the engine bay presents cleanly and unaltered. Super unleaded fuel has always been used.

Suspension and Brakes

Suspension remains to factory specification and delivers a compliant, comfortable ride typical of the Metro. No knocks or unevenness when driving.

The rear brake cylinders were replaced in May 2022, and braking performance is strong and consistent. Pedal feel is reassuring and straight. The braking system and suspension are unrestored but regularly inspected and maintained, with no upgrades or aftermarket parts fitted.

The Drive

On the road, this Metro is a delight: lightweight and nimble, with a strong pull through all gears. The engine feels responsive and eager, with no hesitation or flat spots.

It starts instantly and idles smoothly. There’s no smoke on startup or under load. Gearing is precise and appropriate for urban or dual carriageway use.

Ride quality is supple with good feedback, and the car maintains excellent composure even over rougher surfaces.

Electrics and Other

All electrical systems are in good working order, including lights, indicators, horn, wipers, radio, and interior illumination.

Central locking can be intermittent, but the manual door locks always function correctly.

There are no warning lights on the dash after starting, and switch gear operates as intended.

A battery conditioner is always connected when not in use, and the battery itself has tested at over 90% health.

Original key and spare are present, along with the central locking fob.

The vehicle remains entirely unmodified, preserving its original factory setup.

VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

An impressively complete and well-documented history from new, including original order form, sales invoice, handbooks, brochures, show records, and even period accessories - this Metro has been cherished throughout its life.

The car has benefited from regular servicing throughout its life, including annual services during our five years of ownership, regardless of mileage. Most recently, it was serviced and passed its MOT test, with both the certificate and service record included in the history file. The major 2020 recommissioning included a full mechanical refresh—new cam and alternator belts, water pump, all fluids, oils, and filters—ensuring reliable performance. Earlier servicing was carried out by Rover main dealers, with recent maintenance completed by a trusted independent garage.

A large folder of invoices and receipts documents the car’s upkeep and improvements. Highlights include the 2020 recommissioning, fitting of a genuine Rover fuel filler pipe, underbody corrosion protection, and full interior and exterior detailing. Paperwork also covers the replacement of rear brake cylinders in 2022, plus regular fluid and filter changes. Every invoice has been carefully filed, providing a clear and reassuring service history.

Included in the sale is a detailed history file and photo album of our ownership, alongside an original fitment Dunlop tyre matching the unused spare. The original dealership brochure, period road test magazines, Rover handbooks, servicing and repair manuals are all present. For added charm, we’re including vintage period accessories such as music cassettes, shopping bags, de-icer, tissues, and a first aid kit: all items you might have found in a typical Metro of the era. The original dealer number plates and window stickers remain fitted, and the car comes with two keys, the radio security code, and the V5C logbook.

---------------------------------------------

From Trade Classics:
This is a Market Auction listing, meaning we have not visited and photographed the car - instead the seller has supplied the images and written the description. However we’ve done all our usual seller checks, including photo ID that matches the V5, and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPi that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

Viewings are welcomed, so please get in touch with us via the 'contact us' page - we just need to speak to you first on the phone, have you register on the site, and also send in valid photo ID before confirming a suitable time to visit.

Like all our auctions, if there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - the Buyer's Premium is not refundable in any instance, just like a traditional auction house.

Key Details
  • Model Metro 1.1 L
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 29-03-1993
  • CC 1118
  • Mileage 34,181 miles on the clock
  • Colour Red
  • Interior Colour Grey
  • Interior Trim Cloth
  • Chassis # SAXXPHWEBAD822470
  • Engine # 11K2BG65595488
  • Last Service 14-05-2025
  • MOT 22-05-2026
  • Former Keepers 1
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited No - Seller created listing.
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 5
  • Vehicle Registration K285 AUK
  • Driver’s Side RHD
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Hatchback - 5 Door
  • Auction ID 1864
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Redcar

Request A Delivery Calculation



    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £1,000
    £
    REGISTER TO BID
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 12th Jun at 8.20pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  0
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    594
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    Subscribe
    Notify of
    0 Comments
    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Metro like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid June 2025.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Redcar

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Register Account

    Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

    Complete Form