Rover Quintet

Send This Page To A Friend
Fade To White
Rover Quintet

Rover Qunitet

1981 - 1985
Country:
Japan / United Kingdom
Engine:
4 cyl.
Capacity:
1602 cc
Power:
89 bhp / 67 kW
Transmission:
5 spd. man 3 spd. auto
Top Speed:
n/a
Number Built:
n/a
Collectability:
1 star
Rover Quintet
Rover Qunitet
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 1

Introduction



Although we never got to see the larger Quint versions of the Honda Civic, the Rover Quintet was a straight Japanese Honda with Rover badges stuck on it for the Aussie market.

In fact, JRA did quite well in its negotiations with Honda to ensure there was an impressive specification for the Quintet. Then, capitalising on its "exclusive" distribution rights for the five door hatchback, made the most of the extra dimensions offered by the four-door format of an already popular car.

The Quintet was quite a spirited performer, out accelerating the Holden Camira and 1.5 litre Alfasud, and best of all if you cranked up the air-con it only took a little of the edge off the performance.

Quality components were used throughout, typical of the Honda quality at the time. A Pioneer stereo cassette/radio was standard, as was timber trim, although the latter was pretty obviously only a veneer. The seats were well shaped and finished in a Moquette cloth trim, they complementing the wonderfully supple ride of the larger Civic.

The engine was extremely quiet, and for the vast majority of city and country driving around Australia the Quintet was a thoroughly competent car. The power steering was well weighted, the five speed manual transmission was a relatively short throw affair with good feel, and the car cornered with typical Japanese front drive compliance.

The optional semi-automatic three speed box was also a good choice for the driver that racked up most kilometres in the city. Smooth and efficient, it managed to not dull the driving experience too much. The Honda Quint was replaced by the Integra in 1985, the company assuming the task of selling their own 5 door.

Many may well ask why Honda did not sell the Quint as their own. The reason was the cross-holding structure that had been created between Honda and Rover back in 1979. In exchange for a 20% stake in Honda's UK operation, Rover gave Honda a 20% stake in their entire operation. The idea was that Honda could use the UK operation as a launchpad to the lucrative European markets, while Rover could benefit from the large sums being spent by Honda on development of new models.

The relationship lasted until 1988, when British Aerospace acquired the marque, although it would change hands again in 1994 when BMW took over the operation.
Rover Quintet

Visitor Rating:


Click stars to vote
Reader Reviews page 1 of 1
Click here to add your review
Dylan
Posted Recently
I have a 1985 in nearly perfect condition with 40,000 km, only thing i need to register it is a left blinker, does anyone have a good source for parts? If so my number is 0434 122 225, happy to pay finders fee
Gerko
Posted Recently
The Quinny was the first decent car my wife and I ever had. It had power sunroof, air con and power windows. It was a little beauty until a semi decided to push it off the road one day. We sold it for a 5 series beemer and that was a big mistake.
Paul
Posted Recently
I bought a 1985 Rover Quintet in 2007 in immaculate, low km cond.
We had recently purchased a Rover 827 Sterling and were highly impressed with the marque. The 'Little Q" NEVER lets us down in any way. It is comfy, very well equipped with all factory options and is quite exclusive with the benefits of a Honda driveline. A remarkable car. (The Sterling is just as good!) After a history of Holden's, Ford's & Toyota's, we are now happy converts. Hopefully a Rover 75 will grace our garage one day!
glen beeche
Posted Recently
i bought my quintet in 1985, it is now 2009. this little car has a heart like a lion. been nearly all over australia. carried good loads and has never let me down. my granchildren will not let me change cars as they insist our little car is family. i have owned many cars up until 1985 but this one has been the best. it shows what good care of your car will give you.
glen beeche
Posted Recently
i bought my quintet in 1985, it is now 2009. this little car has a heart like a lion. been nearly all over australia. carried good loads and has never let me down. my granchildren will not let me change cars as they insist our little car is family. i have owned many cars up until 1985 but this one has been the best. it shows what good care of your car will give you.
 
Reader Rides
Sorry, we don't have any reader rides for the Rover Quintet.
Be The First To Upload Pictures Of Your Rover Quintet
Rover's For Sale
Sorry, there are currently no Rover's for sale.
Sell Your Rover Now, Place A Free Classified