850 (7 seater) estate boot seats - any feedback

[Clark]

Dear All,

As per title I have recently acquired a 7 seater 850 estate with foldaway seats in the boot. It's SORN at the moment as it needs a little work but I have been wondering:

1) Does anyone else have one with the rear seats...and do you actually find the seats useful?

2) I've not gotten around to insuring it yet but I hear rumours that the fact that it's a 7 seater will increase my insurance premium. Is this true?

3) I am in 2 minds whether to keep the rear seats or not, as I very much doubt I will use them (even though they are legal) and I would prefer a full size spare wheel and potentially lower insurance premiums. I'm not keen on the rear seatbelts getting in the way of my rear load either.

Maybe the floor pan on these was specifically designed for a space-saver in which case maybe a full size wheel won't fit anyway.

Plus it may not save my money on insurance as it'll still be registered as a 7 seater even though I could convert to a 5 seater.

Thanks to all in advance