Rover 200 R8
A refined British hot hatch powered by Honda's high-revving twin-cam engine.
- Power
- 130 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.2 s
- Top speed
- 124 mph
About the Rover 200 R8
The Rover 216 GTi was the performance flagship of the R8-generation 200 series, a car developed in partnership with Honda. While lower trims used Rover's K-Series engine, the GTi utilised the Honda D16A8 dual-overhead-cam unit, providing a smooth and rev-hungry character. It was praised for its high-quality interior, featuring wood veneers and sports seats, which offered a more 'grown-up' alternative to the Peugeot 205 GTI. Today, it is a rare and sought-after modern classic that represents the peak of the Rover-Honda collaboration.
Rover 200 R8 specs
The Rover 200 R8 produces 130 bhp (97 kW) and 143 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
| Make | Rover |
|---|---|
| Model | 200 |
| Generation | R8 |
| Trim | 216 GTi |
| Years | 1989–1995 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.6-litre Honda D16A8 inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,590 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 130 bhp (97 kW) at 6,800 rpm |
| Torque | 143 Nm (105 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.2 s |
| Top speed | 124 mph (200 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,090 kg (2,403 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 119 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Rover 200 R8 rarity in CarSpot
The Rover 200 R8 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 10 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Rover 200 R8 fun facts
- The 216 GTi's Honda engine was shared with the contemporary CRX and Concerto, featuring a sophisticated PGM-Fi fuel injection system.
- Early 216 GTi models were available in a three-door body style with distinctive two-tone paintwork, usually featuring a grey lower half.
- The R8 generation was so successful that it briefly returned Rover to profitability and was often the best-selling car in its class in the UK.



