Is there and difference in the 2? Is the running gear the same? I Assume At least everything forward of the bulkhead is?

What about the rear end and wheelbase ? Are rear axles etc interchangeable?

Many thanks.

yes the rear axle beam is interchangeable, but be aware that there is more than one type, the abs version doesnt have the little lugs welded to the left hand end near the bush for the rear brake bias valve lever, it is possible to use a non abs version on an abs model but not the other way round,

the estate and hatchback axles are the same, its just the overhang on the body that is longer on the estate models, the pickup model has a different axle beam to the cars because it has a spring perch welded to it because the pickup uses a seperate spring and damper

Fantastic thank you. Now to see about buying the damaged on I have seen layed up for some spares :-)

On a side note, has anybody noticed any difference in handling between the hatch and the estate. Also, did any of the estates have a rear anti-roll bar or was it just hatches? Would it even be necessary?

JJ

i'm not sure, i was under the impression that they all have a rear anti roll bar as standard.. not that it does much mind you

has anybody noticed any difference in handling between the hatch and the estate.

I've had one of each, both with the 68 bhp 1.3 MPi engine. Although there were a few years between I didn't notice any significant difference other than the calculated fuel consumption averaging out at about 1 mpg worse with the estate, (42 v. 43), although maybe this was as much due to the estate having power steering as it was due to the slightly heavier body.