🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Rover Model: Metro Generation: First Generation (XA/XB Series) Codes Chassis Codes: XA (pre-1984), XB (1984-1990) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Rover Metro was positioned as a compact, affordable, and economical city car, intended to appeal to a broad market segment seeking practicality and low running costs. It represented Rover's entry into the supermini class. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against established superminis like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Nova (Opel Corsa), Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 205, and Fiat Uno in the European market. Key Features Design Philosophy: Designed by David Bache, the Metro featured a distinctive, rounded, and aerodynamic shape for its era, with a focus on interior space efficiency within its compact footprint. Unique Selling Points: Responsive handling (especially with Hydragas suspension on some models), fuel efficiency, distinctive British styling, and a relatively spacious interior for its class. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Applicable Years: 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Page Count Estimated Pages: Varies by specific edition, typically 300-500+ pages for comprehensive factory-style manuals. Manual Type Type: Repair and Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, emissions control. Drivetrain: Clutch, gearbox (manual and automatic), driveshafts, differentials. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front discs, rear drums typical). Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body electricals. Bodywork: Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based diagnostics. Repair Rebuild: Engine overhauls, transmission repairs, brake component replacement, suspension component refurbishment, electrical component repair. Disassembly Assembly: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhauls and diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: Full Printable, High Resolution Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Zoom Functionality Zoom: Yes, allows for detailed viewing of diagrams and text. Requirements Software: Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction) Compatibility Operating Systems: All Versions of Windows & Mac ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes: A-Series OHV (various displacements: 998cc, 1275cc, 1397cc) Engine Variants Displacements: Primarily 998cc and 1275cc. Later models (post-1989 'K' series) introduced the 1.1L (1120cc) and 1.4L (1372cc) K-Series engines, though this manual focuses on the earlier A-series era. Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 45 hp (998cc) to 63 hp (1275cc standard models). Performance variants like the MG Metro could exceed 70 hp. Torque Range: Approx. 70 Nm (998cc) to 95 Nm (1275cc), with variations across specific engine tunes. Fuel System Carburetion: Single Zenith Stromberg CD carburetors or SU carburetors were common. Later models might feature twin-carb setups for performance variants or fuel injection on some later K-series engines (outside the scope of this manual's core years). Ignition System Type: Contact breaker points ignition (pre-electronic ignition) for most of the period, transitioning to electronic ignition systems on later models. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed manual transaxle. Some models also offered a 5-speed manual option. Optional Type: 3-speed automatic transaxle. Features Gear Ratios: Detailed gear ratios for all variants and transmissions are provided within the manual. Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid: Typically GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Castrol EP 80W/90 or equivalent). Specific capacities and part numbers will be in the manual. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 3,370 mm (132.7 in) for the standard 3-door hatchback. Width: Approx. 1,570 mm (61.8 in). Height: Approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in). Weights Curb Weight: Starts from approx. 700 kg (1543 lbs) for base models. Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 2,275 mm (89.6 in). Wheel Size Bolt Pattern: 4x100 mm (4-stud). Offset: Typically ET35 to ET45. Manual will specify correct offsets. Tire Sizes: Common sizes include 145/80 R12, 155/70 R13, or 165/60 R13 depending on trim and year. Manual provides definitive fitment. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: Limited independent crash test data available for early models compared to modern standards. Early Metros focused on basic safety features for the era. Active Features Braking System: Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance was often optional or standard on higher trims. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not typically available on models within this manual's scope. Passive Features Seat Belts: Lap and diagonal seat belts for front occupants. Lap belts for rear passengers. Body Structure: Designed with safety crumple zones in mind for the period, though modern standards are significantly higher. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Speakers were typically 2-way units. Manual covers removal and installation of audio components. Driver Assistance Features: Minimal...