Description

The Austin Montego 1.6 was introduced in 1984 as part of British Leyland’s (later Austin Rover’s) attempt to modernize its mid-size car offerings and compete directly with popular rivals like the Ford Sierra and Vauxhall Cavalier. Built on the same platform as the Maestro hatchback but with a longer wheelbase and saloon body style, the Montego aimed to combine practicality, comfort, and affordability for the average British family or fleet buyer.

The 1.6 version featured the 1.6-litre R-series engine initially, soon replaced by the improved S-series engine. This unit produced around 85 horsepower, which was adequate for daily driving, offering a decent mix of economy and usable performance. While it didn’t set the world on fire in terms of speed, the Montego 1.6 could cruise comfortably at motorway speeds and handled competently for a car in its class.

Stylistically, the Montego followed the angular, straight-edged design trends of the early 1980s. Its boxy proportions maximized interior space and gave it a sensible, no-nonsense look. The car’s large glass area, upright driving position, and good visibility made it particularly easy to drive and park.

Inside, the Montego 1.6 had a spacious and airy cabin with a practical layout. Early models featured an ambitious (though sometimes problematic) digital dashboard in higher trims, but the 1.6 typically came with analog dials and cloth upholstery. Equipment varied by trim level, but even base models offered essentials like a five-speed manual gearbox, heating and ventilation controls, and decent boot space.

The Montego was praised for its roomy interior and comfortable ride but was also criticized for build quality and reliability issues that plagued early production cars. Improvements were made over time, and the car found success particularly in the fleet market, where its low running costs and roomy back seats appealed to business users.

Though it never quite matched the popularity of its rivals, the Austin Montego 1.6 played a significant role in keeping British Leyland (and later Rover) in the family saloon game during the 1980s. Today, it’s a rare sight, fondly remembered by some as a practical, unpretentious workhorse of the era.