A metal article is formed by a sintered body of an austenitic ferrous alloy containing chromium and nickel, the ferrous alloy having been infiltrated with a copper or copper base alloy during or after sintering of the body.When a body of aluminum or aluminum alloy is cast around the metal article, a good bond therebetween is achieved. The metal article can thus provide a wear-resistant insert, for example a piston ring carrier in an aluminum piston or a valve seat in an aluminum cylinder head for an automobile.