ALMOST a year since the Austin Metro van was introduced
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at the Birmingham Motor Show, Austin Rover has uprated its payload capacity by 24 per cent and improved the loading facility.
With a plated weight of 1.15 tonnes gvw its payload is increased from 250kg (4.9cwt) to 310kg (6.1cwt). 1.3-litre and onelitre petrol engines can be specified as standard with low compression ratio units. available as options.
Both 1.3 models take the 46.3kW (62bhp) high compression 9.4 to 1 engine and transmission from the Vanden Plas saloon. The 10.3 to 1 compression ratio one-litre engine is rated at 34.3kVV (46bhp) while the standard one-litre A-plus engine develops 32.8kW (44bhp). An 8.3 to 1 30.6kW (41bhp) unit is optional in both one-litre models. The cargo area includes a full-length steel floor and a bulkhead with a welded mesh upper-section mounted directly behind the seats.
Increased maximum weight results from the development of the rear-suspension incorporating Hydragas units, rubber arch type spring assisters and a stiffened sub frame. At the front end of the chassis a thicker MG Metro Turbo-type anti-roll bar is used.
No changes have been made to the body shape but the rear tail gate which opens down to a bumper height, includes a pushbutton release on the gas assisted support strut.
Metro van prices range from £3,398 to £3,924 including vat.