Big Retro Road Test Directory Early December 2025

The big retro road directory. Links to all my retro road tests and links to all of the podcasts too. 148 retro road tests featuring 208 vehicles!

Which one is your favourite?

NoCategoryTestRoad TestPodcast1.CarPeugeot 205 Gti vs Volkswagen Golf GtiBlogPodcast2.CarFord Sierra vs Vauxhall CavalierBlogPodcast3.CarFord Granada vs Vauxhall Carlton vs Rover 800BlogPodcast4.CarFord Sierra Sapphire Cosworth vs BMW M3 vs Lancia Delta Integrale BlogPodcast5.CarFerrari 348 vs Porsche 911 Carrera 2 BlogPodcast6.CarAudi 80 vs BMW 318 vs Mercedes 190 E BlogPodcast7.CarLand Rover Discovery  vs Mitsubishi Shogun vs Isuzu Trooper BlogPodcast8.CarRover 827 Sterling vs Jaguar XJ6 2.9 BlogPodcast9.CarFSO Polonez vs Lada Riva BlogPodcast10.CarFord Escort vs Vauxhall Astra vs Rover 214 BlogPodcast11.CarJaguar XJ220 vs Ferrari F40 vs Porsche 959 BlogPodcast12.CarIsuzu Piazza vs Honda Prelude BlogPodcast13.CarPorsche 944 vs Lotus Excel BlogPodcast14.CarAustin Metro vs Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Nova BlogPodcast15.CarCitroen 2CV vs Renault 4 vs Fiat 126 vs Austin MiniBlogPodcast16.CarPorsche 928 vs Mercedes 500 SL BlogPodcast17.CarToyota Celica  vs Nissan 200SX vs Honda Prelude BlogPodcast18.CarVauxhall Frontera vs Suzuki Vitara BlogPodcast19.CarJaguar XJ6 vs Mercedes S320 vs Lexus LS400 vs BMW 730iBlogPodcast20.CarRover Montego vs Ford Sierra vs Peugeot 405 vs Vauxhall CavalierBlogPodcast21.CarVauxhall Tigra vs Nissan 100NX vs Toyota Paseo BlogPodcast22.CarRenault 5 vs Peugeot 205 BlogPodcast23.CarFiat Croma vs Lancia Thema vs Saab 9000 vs Alfa Romeo 164BlogPodcast24.CarPeugeot 505 Gti vs Volvo 740 Turbo BlogPodcast25.CarFord Fiesta XR2 vs Renault 5 Gordini BlogPodcast26.CarCitroen BX 16v vs Peugeot 405 Mi16 vs Renault 21 Turbo BlogPodcast27.CarFord Granada Ghia vs Volvo 740 Turbo BlogPodcast28.CarRover 600 vs Audi 80 BlogPodcast29.CarRover Mini Cooper vs Fiat Cinqucento Sporting BlogPodcast30.CarPeugeot 205 vs Rover Metro BlogPodcast31.CarPeugeot 405 vs Rover Montego BlogPodcast32.CarFord Escort XR3i vs Rover Maestro MG BlogPodcast33.CarVauxhall Cavalier vs Volvo 440 BlogPodcast34.CarFiat Uno vs Renault 5 BlogPodcast35.CarRover Metro vs Volkswagen Polo BlogPodcast36.CarFord Escort vs Volvo 340 BlogPodcast37.CarPorsche 944 vs Renault Alpine GTA BlogPodcast38.CarJaguar XJS vs BMW 635 CSI BlogPodcast39.CarLotus Carlton vs BMW M5 BlogPodcast40.CarFord Orion vs Peugeot 305 BlogPodcast41.CarFord Cortina vs Talbot Solara BlogPodcast42.CarMcLaren F1 vs Jaguar XJ220 BlogPodcast43.CarMG Metro vs Fiat 127 Sport BlogPodcast44.CarFord Escort vs Talbot Horizon BlogPodcast45.CarMazda 626 vs Toyota Carina BlogPodcast46.CarMazda Xedos 6 vs BMW 3 Series BlogPodcast47.CarTalbot Tagora vs Ford Granada BlogPodcast48.CarNissan 300 ZX vs Mazda RX-7 BlogPodcast49.CarAlfa Romeo 75 vs Saab 900 BlogPodcast50.CarFord Escort RS Turbo vs Volkswagen Golf GTI BlogPodcast51.CarVauxhall Calibra vs Ford Probe BlogPodcast52.CarCitroen AX vs Vauxhall Nova BlogPodcast53.CarAudi 100 vs Rover 800 BlogPodcast54.CarFiat Sciento vs Volkwagen Lupo BlogPodcast55.CarSaab 9000 vs Rover 800 BlogPodcast56.CarRover 216 vs Ford Orion BlogPodcast57.CarAustin Maestro vs Ford Escort BlogPodcast58.CarAudi 100 vs BMW 5 Series BlogPodcast59.CarLotus Carlton vs Mercedes 500 E BlogPodcast60.CarLand Rover Discovery  vs Toyota Land Cruiser BlogPodcast61.CarCitroen BX vs Peugeot 405 BlogPodcast62.CarHonda NSX vs Ferrari 348BlogPodcast63.CarLada Niva vs Jeep WranglerBlogPodcast64.CarVolkswagen Corrado vs Honda PreludeBlogPodcast65.CarVolkswagen Passat vs Vauxhall CavalierBlogPodcast66.CarRover 600 vs Mercedes 190EBlogPodcast67.CarPeugeot 309 Gti vs Vauxhall Astra GTEBlogPodcast68.CarHonda Accord vs Toyota CamryBlogPodcast69.CarFord Escort Cosworth vs Lancia Delta IntegraleBlogPodcast70.CarFerrari Testarossa vs Lamborghini CountachBlogPodcast71.CarPorsche 911 vs Honda NSXBlogPodcast72.CarNissan Bluebird vs Vauxhall CavalierBlogPodcast73.CarVauxhall Calibra vs Volkswagen CorradoBlogPodcast74.CarRenault 21 vs Peugeot 405BlogPodcast75.CarOpel Manta vs Ford CapriBlogPodcast76.CarBMW 3 Series vs Rover 600BlogPodcast77.CarFerrari 328 vs Detomaso PanteraBlogPodcast78.CarFord Orion vs Volkswagen JettaBlogPodcast79.CarRover SD1 vs Talbot TagoraBlogPodcast80.CarRover MGF vs Mazda MX5BlogPodcast81.CarTalbot Samba vs Austin MetroBlogPodcast82.CarCitroen 2CV vs Renault 4BlogPodcast83.CarRange Rover vs Toyota Land CruiserBlogPodcast84.CarHonda Civic vs Ford EscortBlogPodcast85.CarFord Fiesta vs Citroen AXBlogPodcast86.CarToyota Land Cruiser  vs Mitsbishi ShogunBlogPodcast87.CarHonda NSX vs Lotus EspiritBlogPodcast88.VanAustin Maestro Van vs Ford Escort VanBlogPodcast89.CarRover Montego vs Nissan BluebirdBlogPodcast90.CarMercedes 300E vs BMW 530iBlogPodcast91.CarSaab 900 vs Rover 800BlogPodcast92.CarTalbot Samba vs Ford FiestaBlogPodcast93.CarVauxhall Omega vs Ford scorpioBlogPodcast94.CarVauxhall Omega vs Rover 800BlogPodcast95.CarFord Escort Cosworth vs BMW M3BlogPodcast96.CarVauxhall Omega vs Volvo 940BlogPodcast97.CarVolkswagen Corrado vs Toyota CelicaBlogPodcast98.CarRover SD1 vs Peugeot 604BlogPodcast99.CarVauxhall Omega vs BMW 5 SeriesBlogPodcast100.VanVauxhall Rascal vs Suzuki SupercarryBlogPodcast101.CarToyota Starlet vs Ford FiestaBlogPodcast102.VanFord Escort Van vs Vauxhall AstramaxBlogPodcast103.CarVolvo S40 vs Audi A4BlogPodcast104.CarVolkswagen Passat vs Ford SierraBlogPodcast105.CarRenault Scenic vs Fiat MultiplaBlogPodcast106.CarMG Metro vs Fiesta XR2BlogPodcast107.CarBugatti EB110 vs Ferrari F40BlogPodcast108.CarFiat Punto vs Ford FiestaBlogPodcast109.CarVolkswagen Corrado vs Rover 220 CoupeBlogPodcast110.CarVolvo 960 vs Rover 827BlogPodcast111.CarFord Mondeo vs Renault LagunaBlogPodcast112.CarRover 220 coupe vs Vauxhall CalibraBlogPodcast113.CarJeep Cherokee vs Land Rover DiscoveryBlogPodcast114.VanFord Escort Van vs Morris Marina VanBlogPodcast115.VanFord Transit vs Renault MasterBlogPodcast116.CarOpel Manta vs Volkswagen SciroccoBlogPodcast117.CarRenault Clio vs Peugeot 205BlogPodcast118.CarFord Escort RS 2000 1978 vs Volkswagen Golf Gti 1978BlogPodcast119.BikeHonda Fireblade 1999 vs Yamaha R1 1999BlogPodcast120.BoatJenneau Merry Fisher vs Beneteau AntaresBlogPodcast121.BoatSealine S38 vs Princess V39BlogPodcast122.BoatFleming 58 vs Grand Banks Aleutian 59BlogPodcast123.BoatPrincess 60 vs Fairline Squadron 62BlogPodcast124.CarVolkswagen Santana vs Talbot TagoraBlogPodcast125.BoatFairline Targa 36 vs Sealine S37BlogPodcast126.BikeHonda Fireblade 1999 vs Suzuki Hyabusa 1999BlogPodcast127.CarFord Mondeo ST vs Jaguar X-TypeBlogPodcast128.CarFord Sierra Cosworth vs BMW M3BlogPodcast129.CarFiat 131 vs Ford CortinaBlogPodcast130.CarMercedes C Class vs BMW 3 seriesBlogPodcast131.VanFord Transit vs Bedford MidiBlogPodcast132.CarCitroen XM vs Ford GranadaBlogPodcast133.CarLada Niva vs Suzuki SamuraiBlogPodcast134.CarFord Cortina vs Austin PrincessBlogPodcast135.CarVolvo 740 vs Vauxhall CarltonBlogPodcast136.CarFord Capri vs Renault FuegoBlogPodcast137.CarRover 600 vs Saab 900BlogPodcast138.CarVolvo 240 vs Ford GranadaBlogPodcast139.CarVolvo 850 vs Mazda Xedos 6BlogPodcast140.CarFerrari F355 vs Porsche 911BlogPodcast141.CarAudi Coupe vs Volkswagen CorradoBlogPodcast142.CarBMW 525i vs Rover 827BlogPodcast143.CarVauxhall Carlton vs Ford GranadaBlogPodcast144.CarMazda 323 vs Ford EscortBlogPodcast145.CarJaguar X-Type vs Rover 75BlogPodcast146.CarFord Escort Cabriolet vs Rover 216 CabrioletBlogPodcast147.CarFord Granada vs Renault 25BlogPodcast148.CarToyota Land Cruiser  vs Nissan PatrolBlogPodcast

#courtGuinness #directory #listOfRoadTests #retroRoadTests

Road Test List November 2025

206 vehicles and 146 tests! Please see below for a list of all road tests and links to each of them a full directory including podcasts will be available very soon. PS: Which one is your favourite?

Road Tests1. Peugeot 205 Gti vs Volkswagen Golf Gti2. Ford Sierra vs Vauxhall Cavalier3. Ford Granada vs Vauxhall Carlton vs Rover 8004. Ford Sierra Sapphire Cosworth vs BMW M3 vs Lancia Delta Integrale 5. Ferrari 348 vs Porsche 911 Carrera 2 6. Audi 80 vs BMW 318 vs Mercedes 190 E 7. Land Rover Discovery  vs Mitsubishi Shogun vs Isuzu Trooper 8. Rover 827 Sterling vs Jaguar XJ6 2.9 9. FSO Polonez vs Lada Riva 10. Ford Escort vs Vauxhall Astra vs Rover 214 11. Jaguar XJ220 vs Ferrari F40 vs Porsche 959 12. Isuzu Piazza vs Honda Prelude 13. Porsche 944 vs Lotus Excel 14. Austin Metro vs Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Nova 15. Citroen 2CV vs Renault 4 vs Fiat 126 vs Austin Mini16. Porsche 928 vs Mercedes 500 SL 17. Toyota Celica  vs Nissan 200SX vs Honda Prelude 18. Vauxhall Frontera vs Suzuki Vitara 19. Jaguar XJ6 vs Mercedes S320 vs Lexus LS400 vs BMW 730i20. Rover Montego vs Ford Sierra vs Peugeot 405 vs Vauxhall Cavalier21. Vauxhall Tigra vs Nissan 100NX vs Toyota Paseo 22. Renault 5 vs Peugeot 205 23. Fiat Croma vs Lancia Thema vs Saab 9000 vs Alfa Romeo 16424. Peugeot 505 Gti vs Volvo 740 Turbo 25. Ford Fiesta XR2 vs Renault 5 Gordini 26. Citroen BX 16v vs Peugeot 405 Mi16 vs Renault 21 Turbo 27. Ford Granada Ghia vs Volvo 740 Turbo 28. Rover 600 vs Audi 80 29. Rover Mini Cooper vs Fiat Cinqucento Sporting 30. Peugeot 205 vs Rover Metro 31. Peugeot 405 vs Rover Montego 32. Ford Escort XR3i vs Rover Maestro MG 33. Vauxhall Cavalier vs Volvo 440 34. Fiat Uno vs Renault 5 35. Rover Metro vs Volkswagen Polo 36. Ford Escort vs Volvo 340 37. Porsche 944 vs Renault Alpine GTA 38. Jaguar XJS vs BMW 635 CSI 39. Lotus Carlton vs BMW M5 40. Ford Orion vs Peugeot 305 41. Ford Cortina vs Talbot Solara 42. McLaren F1 vs Jaguar XJ220 43. MG Metro vs Fiat 127 Sport 44. Ford Escort vs Talbot Horizon 45. Mazda 626 vs Toyota Carina 46. Mazda Xedos 6 vs BMW 3 Series 47. Talbot Tagora vs Ford Granada 48. Nissan 300 ZX vs Mazda RX-7 49. Alfa Romeo 75 vs Saab 900 50. Ford Escort RS Turbo vs Volkswagen Golf GTI 51. Vauxhall Calibra vs Ford Probe 52. Citroen AX vs Vauxhall Nova 53. Audi 100 vs Rover 800 54. Fiat Sciento vs Volkwagen Lupo 55. Saab 9000 vs Rover 800 56. Rover 216 vs Ford Orion 57. Austin Maestro vs Ford Escort 58. Audi 100 vs BMW 5 Series 59. Lotus Carlton vs Mercedes 500 E 60. Land Rover Discovery  vs Toyota Land Cruiser 61. Citroen BX vs Peugeot 405 62. Honda NSX vs Ferrari 34863. Lada Niva vs Jeep Wrangler64. Volkswagen Corrado vs Honda Prelude65. Volkswagen Passat vs Vauxhall Cavalier66. Rover 600 vs Mercedes 190E67. Peugeot 309 Gti vs Vauxhall Astra GTE68. Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry69. Ford Escort Cosworth vs Lancia Delta Integrale70. Ferrari Testarossa vs Lamborghini Countach71. Porsche 911 vs Honda NSX72. Nissan Bluebird vs Vauxhall Cavalier73. Vauxhall Calibra vs Volkswagen Corrado74. Renault 21 vs Peugeot 40575. Opel Manta vs Ford Capri76. BMW 3 Series vs Rover 60077. Ferrari 328 vs Detomaso Pantera78. Ford Orion vs Volkswagen Jetta79. Rover SD1 vs Talbot Tagora80. Rover MGF vs Mazda MX581. Talbot Samba vs Austin Metro82. Citroen 2CV vs Renault 483. Range Rover vs Toyota Land Cruiser84. Honda Civic vs Ford Escort85. Ford Fiesta vs Citroen AX86. Toyota Land Cruiser  vs Mitsbishi Shogun87. Honda NSX vs Lotus Espirit88. Austin Maestro Van vs Ford Escort Van89. Rover Montego vs Nissan Bluebird90. Mercedes 300E vs BMW 530i91. Saab 900 vs Rover 80092. Talbot Samba vs Ford Fiesta93. Vauxhall Omega vs Ford scorpio94. Vauxhall Omega vs Rover 80095. Ford Escort Cosworth vs BMW M396. Vauxhall Omega vs Volvo 94097. Volkswagen Corrado vs Toyota Celica98. Rover SD1 vs Peugeot 60499. Vauxhall Omega vs BMW 5 Series100. Vauxhall Rascal vs Suzuki Supercarry101. Toyota Starlet vs Ford Fiesta102. Ford Escort Van vs Vauxhall Astramax103. Volvo S40 vs Audi A4104. Volkswagen Passat vs Ford Sierra105. Renault Scenic vs Fiat Multipla106. MG Metro vs Fiesta XR2107. Bugatti EB110 vs Ferrari F40108. Fiat Punto vs Ford Fiesta109. Volkswagen Corrado vs Rover 220 Coupe110. Volvo 960 vs Rover 827111. Ford Mondeo vs Renault Laguna112. Rover 220 coupe vs Vauxhall Calibra113. Jeep Cherokee vs Land Rover Discovery114. Ford Escort Van vs Morris Marina Van115. Ford Transit vs Renault Master116. Opel Manta vs Volkswagen Scirocco117. Renault Clio vs Peugeot 205118. Ford Escort RS 2000 1978 vs Volkswagen Golf Gti 1978119. Honda Fireblade 1999 vs Yamaha R1 1999120. Jenneau Merry Fisher vs Beneteau Antares121. Sealine S38 vs Princess V39122. Fleming 58 vs Grand Banks Aleutian 59123. Princess 60 vs Fairline Squadron 62124. Volkswagen Santana vs Talbot Tagora125. Fairline Targa 36 vs Sealine S37126. Honda Fireblade 1999 vs Suzuki Hyabusa 1999127. Ford Mondeo ST vs Jaguar X-Type128. Ford Sierra Cosworth vs BMW M3129. Fiat 131 vs Ford Cortina130. Mercedes C Class vs BMW 3 series131. Ford Transit vs Bedford Midi132. Citroen XM vs Ford Granada133. Lada Niva vs Suzuki Samurai134. Ford Cortina vs Austin Princess135. Volvo 740 vs Vauxhall Carlton136. Ford Capri vs Renault Fuego137. Rover 600 vs Saab 900138. Volvo 240 vs Ford Granada139. Volvo 850 vs Mazda Xedos 6140. Ferrari F355 vs Porsche 911141. Audi Coupe vs Volkswagen Corrado142. BMW 525i vs Rover 827143. Vauxhall Carlton vs Ford Granada144. Mazda 323 vs Ford Escort145. Jaguar X-Type vs Rover 75146. Ford Escort Cabriolet vs Rover 216 Cabriolet

#courtGuinness #list #november2025 #retroRoadTests #roadTests

Retro Road Test: Ford Escort Cabriolet vs Rover 216 Cabriolet (1993)

A Very British Battle of Open-Top Modesty

Convertibles are often associated with glamour: palm-lined boulevards, chic sunglasses, windswept hair worthy of an M&S advert, and perhaps an expensive dog in the passenger seat. But in early-1990s Britain—the era of Ceefax, Supermarket Sweep, and the Ford Probe—convertibles took a very different form. Manufacturers decided that sunshine shouldn’t be reserved for those with Champagne budgets. Instead, they gave us the accessible cabriolet: an ordinary hatchback with its roof removed, some extra bracing inserted, and just enough glamour to make the neighbours wonder whether you’d won £50 on the Premium Bonds.

Two of the great exponents of this principle were the 1993 Ford Escort Cabriolet and the 1993 Rover 216 Cabriolet. Both proudly British (in manufacturing at least), both equipped with humble 1.6-litre engines, and both converted from their more sensible, roofed siblings. And both, crucially, marketed to the British buyer who wanted “a nice little open-top motor” but wasn’t quite prepared to take the plunge into MX-5 territory.

What follows is a thorough road test comparing these two early-‘90s drop-tops—performance, comfort, ride, handling, build quality, style, and everything in between. Expect honesty, humour, a sprinkling of nostalgia, and perhaps an affectionate dig or two at the UK automotive industry’s quirks at the time.

1. Styling & First Impressions

Ford Escort Cabriolet

In 1993 the Escort Cabriolet was still something of a minor celebrity on Britain’s roads. Styled originally by Karmann in Germany, it retained that slightly chunky, angular stance that defined the early-‘90s Ford range. The standard Escort hatchback wasn’t exactly a show-stopper, but lop the top off, add a fabric hood, widen the hips slightly, and—well—it was at least noticeable.

The Escort Cabriolet exudes a sort of endearing, sturdy prettiness. The front end is bluntly straightforward, almost saying “look, I’m here to do the job, let’s not get carried away.” The rear is slightly more flattering, with a gentle taper and neat light clusters. The hood folds down into a tidy pile—never fully disappearing into the body, but tidy enough that passers-by won’t assume you’ve broken it.

In bright red—Ford’s favourite press colour—it looks cheerfully extroverted. In white, it looks like the car your aunt bought after watching an episode of Howard’s Way. In metallic British Racing Green, it looks surprisingly sharp, like something that wouldn’t embarrass you on the seafront at Scarborough.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

The Rover, however, enters with more style than one might expect from a company whose brand image in the 1990s oscillated between “your grandad’s choice” and “surprisingly classy if you squint.” The 216 Cabriolet was based on the R8-series 200/400 range—a car widely respected for its crisp lines and pleasant driving manners—and it translated into cabriolet form remarkably well.

With the roof down, the 216 looks genuinely elegant. Clean shoulder lines, neatly integrated bumpers, and a rear deck that doesn’t look like an afterthought. The Rover appears more cohesive than the Escort, as though someone actually started by designing a cabriolet rather than simply removing elements once the hatchback was finished.

It is unquestionably the more sophisticated of the pair. While the Escort suggests you might be driving to a fun fair, the Rover implies you’re on your way to a garden centre that stocks imported plants and “artisan chutneys.”

2. Interior & Comfort

Escort Cabriolet

Inside, the Escort’s cabin is a reminder that Ford in the early ‘90s believed firmly in grey. Light grey plastics, dark grey seat fabric, mid-grey carpeting—if you like grey, Ford had you covered. Ergonomically, it’s fine: gauges are clear, switches are logical, and everything feels reasonably solid, though not exactly luxurious.

The seats are comfortable enough, if slightly flat, and the driving position is what one might call “generic Ford”—a bit upright, a bit firm, a bit like sitting at a school desk that’s been adjusted for everyone but specifically you.

Rear seating exists, technically. Adults will fit if they are unusually flexible or exceptionally forgiving, but children and dogs will fare better. With the roof up, headroom is limited; with the roof down, it’s fine, provided they don’t mind the breeze rearranging their hair into something resembling a startled ferret.

Noise levels are acceptable for a car missing a quarter of its structure. The hood seals reasonably well, and wind intrusion is minimal at moderate speeds. Above 60mph, however, conversations become more theoretical than practical.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

Settle into the Rover and things immediately feel more upmarket. Rover interiors of the period weren’t truly luxurious, but they aimed for plush rather than plain. Softer plastics, more inviting fabrics, velour options, and small touches of faux wood (or real wood in posher trims) elevate the environment noticeably above the Ford.

The driving position is comfortable, slightly lower and more enveloping. The seats offer better lateral support and longer-distance comfort. The dashboard, while undeniably very “1990s Rover,” is neatly laid out, thoughtful, and pleasant to the touch.

Rear seat accommodation is marginally better than the Escort’s—still not limousine territory, but adults have a fighting chance of tolerating short journeys without plotting revenge.

Roof noise is impressively subdued. With the hood up, you can have a conversation at motorway speeds without resorting to eyebrow semaphore. With the hood down, turbulence is present but not overwhelming, and the car feels more solidly engineered in this regard than the Escort.

3. Engines & Performance

Ford Escort Cabriolet – 1.6-litre (1993)

Ford’s 1.6-litre engine of the era was a dependable companion—reliable, tuneable, and perfectly willing, if not particularly enthusiastic. In carburettor and fuel-injected forms, power output typically sat around 88–90bhp.

Acceleration from 0–60mph takes approximately 12–13 seconds, depending on the exact variant and options fitted on the day. It never feels especially brisk, nor does it feel lethargic—it’s simply adequate, content to get you where you’re going without any unnecessary excitement.

Throttle response is modest, and the engine note under load is functional rather than inspiring—a sort of muted drone that says “I’m doing my best, alright?”

The gearbox, however, is a highlight: slick, mechanical, and easy to work through the ratios. Ford’s transmissions of the era were consistently pleasant, and the Escort benefits greatly from this.

Rover 216 Cabriolet – 1.6-litre (1993)

The Rover’s 1.6-litre Honda-derived engine is a more refined unit, offering around 110bhp in fuel-injected form. It’s smoother, quieter, and significantly more willing to rev. The difference between the two engines is immediately noticeable.

0–60mph comes up in roughly 10 seconds—respectably brisk for a compact convertible of its era. Power delivery is linear and eager, and the engine sounds happier when worked hard, emitting a distant but pleasant growl rather than the Ford’s determined hum.

The gearbox, often a Honda-sourced unit in this configuration, is light, precise, and delightfully easy to use. It is arguably one of the best transmissions fitted to any modest British convertible at the time.

In outright performance terms, the Rover is the clear winner. It accelerates harder, cruises more quietly, and feels more alive under your right foot.

4. Ride, Handling & Driving Experience

Escort Cabriolet

Removing the roof of a hatchback is always an engineering challenge, and Ford’s solution—while adequate—resulted in a chassis that feels less rigid than the Rover’s. Flex is noticeable over potholes and rough surfaces, and the steering wheel occasionally wobbles like a damp biscuit under pressure.

That said, the Escort is actually quite fun. The steering is light but accurate, the suspension soft enough to absorb urban imperfections, and the handling predictable. It leans in corners but does so politely, clearly communicating its intentions. You can push it, but it will remind you that enthusiasm has limits.

Around town, it is wonderfully easy to drive. Light steering, good visibility, and a turning circle that encourages U-turn experimentation. On faster roads, it’s stable enough, though crosswinds may occasionally remind you that the roof is made of fabric and optimism.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

The Rover feels more structurally sound, with less scuttle shake and fewer vibrations through the cabin. The suspension is firmer than the Ford’s but more controlled, giving it a more composed and mature feel.

Steering is precise, with a nicely weighted feel. Turn-in is sharper, mid-corner stability better, and the whole car feels more planted. You can drive it quickly and confidently, trusting it to behave predictably even on uneven surfaces.

Where the Escort feels like a cheerful companion, the Rover feels like a capable partner.

Ride quality is excellent, balancing firmness with compliance. Motorway cruising is quiet and smooth; B-roads can be enjoyed without bracing for impact. It is, overall, the more sophisticated driving experience of the two.

5. Refinement & Build Quality

Ford Escort Cabriolet

Ford’s build quality in the early ‘90s was, charitably, “inconsistent.” Some examples were solid, others creaked like a haunted staircase. Cabin plastics were durable but unremarkable, switchgear felt robust enough, and the general impression was of a car built with practicality rather than finesse in mind.

Wind noise with the hood up is acceptable; road noise is a bit intrusive. The hood mechanism, however, is reasonably reliable and easy to operate.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

The Rover feels more carefully assembled. Panels fit neatly, the doors shut with more conviction, and the cabin feels more thoughtfully constructed. The hood is better insulated, the seals more effective, and the general sense of quality higher.

Not that it’s immune to the occasional creak or rattle—this was, after all, a 1990s British car—but compared to the Ford, it feels more refined throughout.

6. Practicality & Running Costs

Escort Cabriolet

Practicality is… relative. The boot is modest but usable, the rear seats fold (helpful), and parts availability is excellent thanks to Ford’s wide network and generous recycling of components across its range.

Fuel economy hovers around the high-30s mpg, dipping into the low-30s if driven with enthusiasm. Insurance is reasonable, repairs are usually cheap, and the car is simple enough for most mechanics to understand without spiritual preparation.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

The Rover’s boot is slightly smaller, but still functional. Rear seating slightly better. The Honda-derived engine is extremely reliable, though parts can be pricier.

Fuel economy is similar to the Ford’s despite the extra power—mid-30s mpg being typical.

Insurance costs slightly more, but nothing outrageous. Servicing is straightforward, and reliability of the R8-series cars is well regarded.

7. Character & Ownership Experience

Escort Cabriolet

The Escort is fun, cheerful, slightly rough around the edges, and deeply British. It’s the convertible equivalent of a day trip to Blackpool: enjoyable, slightly chaotic, but charming all the same.

Rover 216 Cabriolet

The Rover is more refined, more grown-up, and better built. It’s the convertible equivalent of a National Trust membership: tasteful, gentle, and designed for relaxed pleasure.

8. Verdict

By nearly every objective measure—the engine, the refinement, the handling, the interior quality—the 1993 Rover 216 Cabriolet is the superior car. It accelerates faster, cruises more smoothly, corners more confidently, and makes you feel slightly more upmarket than you probably are.

But the Ford Escort Cabriolet has an undeniable charm, a likeability that transcends its limitations. It is simple, honest motoring with a splash of fun. It’s cheaper to run, easier to maintain, and carries a certain nostalgia that many British drivers of a certain age will recognise immediately.

If you want sophistication: choose the Rover.
If you want simplicity and cheeky enjoyment: choose the Escort.

For a sunny afternoon drive with the promise of ice cream and unpredictability? Escort.
For a weekend away with someone who appreciates a bit of comfort? Rover.

Either way, Britain in the early ‘90s knew how to make a cracking little cabriolet—roof optional, smiles guaranteed.

#16Litre #1993 #cabriolet #fordScortCabriolet #retroRoadTests #rover216

Retro Road Tests: Vehicle List: November 2025

Please see below for the vehicle list and appearance data for Retro Road Tests for October 2025. Which is your favourite? A full Directory is coming soon.

204 vehicles, 145 road tests.

Vehicle NameTypeRoad TestsAlfa Romeo 164Car1Alfa Romeo 75Car1Audi 100Car2Audi 80Car2Audi A4Car1Audi CoupeCar1Austin MaestroCar1Austin Maestro VanVan1Austin MetroCar2Austin MiniCar1Austin PrincessCar1Bedford MidiVan1Beneteau AntaresBoat1BMW 3 SeriesCar3BMW 318Car1BMW 5 SeriesCar2BMW 525iCar1BMW 530iCar1BMW 635 CSICar1BMW 730iCar1BMW M3Car3BMW M5Car1Bugatti EB110Car1Citroen 2CVCar2Citroen AXCar2Citroen BXCar1Citroen BX 16vCar1Citroen XMCar1Detomaso PanteraCar1Fairline Squadron 62Boat1Fairline Targa 36Boat1Ferrari 328Car1Ferrari 348Car2Ferrari F355Car1Ferrari F40Car2Ferrari TestarossaCar1Fiat 126Car1Fiat 127 SportCar1Fiat 131Car1Fiat Cinqucento SportingCar1Fiat CromaCar1Fiat MultiplaCar1Fiat PuntoCar1Fiat ScientoCar1Fiat UnoCar1Fiesta XR2Car1Fleming 58Boat1Ford CapriCar2Ford CortinaCar3Ford EscortCar6Ford Escort CosworthCar2Ford Escort Rs 2000 1978Van1Ford Escort RS TurboCar1Ford Escort VanVan3Ford Escort XR3iCar1Ford FiestaCar5Ford Fiesta XR2Car1Ford GranadaCar5Ford Granada GhiaCar1Ford MondeoCar1Ford Mondeo STCar1Ford OrionCar3Ford ProbeCar1Ford ScorpioCar1Ford SierraCar3Ford Sierra CosworthCar1Ford Sierra Sapphire CosworthCar1Ford TransitVan2FSO PolonezCar1Grand Banks Aleutian 59Boat1Honda AccordCar1Honda CivicCar1Honda Fireblade 1999Boat2Honda NSXCar3Honda PreludeCar3Isuzu PiazzaCar1Isuzu TrooperCar1Jaguar XJ220Car2Jaguar XJ6Car1Jaguar XJ6 2.9Car1Jaguar XJSCar1Jaguar X-TypeCar2Jeep CherokeeCar1Jeep WranglerCar1Jenneau Merry FisherBoat1Lada NivaCar2Lada RivaCar1Lamborghini CountachCar1Lancia Delta IntegraleCar2Lancia ThemaCar1Land Rover DiscoveryCar1Lexus LS400Car1Lotus CarltonCar2Lotus EspiritCar1Lotus ExcelCar1Mazda 323Car1Mazda 626Car1Mazda MX5Car1Mazda RX-7Car1Mazda Xedos 6Car2McLaren F1Car1Mercedes 190ECar2Mercedes 300ECar1Mercedes 500 ECar1Mercedes 500 SLCar1Mercedes C ClassCar1Mercedes S320Van1MG MetroCar2Mitsubishi ShogunCar2Morris Marina VanVan1Nissan 100 NXCar0Nissan 200 SXCar1Nissan 300 ZXCar1Nissan BluebirdCar2Opel MantaCar2Peugeot 205Car3Peugeot 205 GtiCar1Peugeot 305Car1Peugeot 309 GtiCar1Peugeot 405Car4Peugeot 405 Mi16Car1Peugeot 505 GtiCar1Peugeot 604Car1Porsche 911Car2Porsche 911 Carrera 2Car1Porsche 928Car1Porsche 944Car2Porsche 959Car1Princess 60Boat1Princess V39Boat1Range RoverCar1Renault 21Car1Renault 21 TurboCar1Renault 4Car2Renault 5Car2Renault 5 GordiniCar1Renault Alpine GTACar1Renault ClioVan1Renault FuegoCar1Renault LagunaCar1Renault MasterVan1Renault ScenicCar1Rover 214Car1Rover 216Car1Rover 220 CoupeCar2Rover 600Car4Rover 75Car1Rover 800Car5Rover 827Car2Rover 827 SterlingCar1Rover Maestro MGCar1Rover MetroCar2Rover MGFCar1Rover Mini CooperCar1Rover MontegoCar3Rover SD1Car2Saab 900Car3Saab 9000Car2Sealine S37Boat1Sealine S38Boat1Suzuki Hyabusa 1999Car1Suzuki SamuraiCar1Suzuki SupercarryVan1Suzuki VitaraCar1Talbot horizonCar1Talbot SambaCar2Talbot SolaraCar1Talbot TagoraCar3Toyota CamryCar1Toyota CarinaCar1Toyota CelicaCar1Toyota Land CruiserCar2Toyota PaseoCar1Toyota StarletCar1Vauxhall AstraCar1Vauxhall Astra GTECar1Vauxhall AstramaxVan1Vauxhall CalibraCar3Vauxhall CarltonCar3Vauxhall CavalierVan5Vauxhall FronteraCar1Vauxhall NovaCar2Vauxhall OmegaCar4Vauxhall RascalVan1Vauxhall TigraCar1Volkswagen CorradoCar5Volkswagen Golf GtiCar2Volkswagen Golf Gti 1978Car1Volkswagen JettaCar1Volkswagen PassatCar2Volkswagen PoloCar1Volkswagen SantanaCar1Volkswagen SciroccoCar1Volkwagen LupoCar1Volvo 240Car1Volvo 340Car1Volvo 440Car1Volvo 740Car1Volvo 740 TurboCar1Volvo 850Car1Volvo 940Car1Volvo 960Car1Volvo S40Car1Yamaha R1 1999Bike1

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Big Retro Road Test Directory April 2025 https://courtg9000.wordpress.com/2025/04/18/big-retro-road-test-directory-april-2025/ #Directory, #ModernClassics, #Podcasts, #RetroRoadTests

Retro Road Test Update https://courtg9000.wordpress.com/2024/09/18/retro-road-test-update/ #CourtGuinness, #Courtg9000, #RetroRoadTests, #Update