In reality... he knows he has no chance. Rover? Come on mate... go home and try to swap it for a car of his class. Not for one from higher class. No way...
Not surprised the 200 left the 1.8 for dust. 115 vs ~152 bhp is a bit of a stark difference.
I'd favour an HGT in a head to head battle but do know the 200s shift. When the head gaskets don't die, the K-series engines are very under-estimated blocks.