Two examples for sale now at classicandsportscar.com
OUR VERDICT
Rover P6s are thoroughly usable classics and, after decades in the doldrums, really exceptional 3500Ss are hitting some high prices – but there are still plenty of very good cars to be found for much less. There are also many neglected, bodged cars out there, so check very carefully for the most unmolested and structurally sound example possible. A good history is desirable, but current condition is much more important.
FOR
Comfortable, quiet and reasonably lively, with healthy enthusiast and parts back-up, the P6 is one of the more painless classics to own and is ideal family transport
AGAINST
With values still low, restoration of the complex structure costs far more than the end result will be worth, so beware
ROVER 3500
Year 1974 Recorded mileage 41,193km Price €29,500 Vendor Gallery Aaldering, Brummen, The Netherlands; gallery-aaldering.com For Stylish looks; condition; usable spec Against Right at the top of the market
We couldnʼt resist including this handsome late MkII 3500, despite its hefty price-tag, because it looks so good in green with RoStyle wheels, vinyl roof and tan leather trim. Delivered new to Sweden, it has been fully rebuilt in recent years and is now in superb fettle. The panel fit is good, the paint rich and lustrous, and the retrimmed interior handsome without looking overdone. It comes with a history file including original manuals and invoices for the work.
ROVER 2000
Year 1964 Recorded mileage 71,967 Price £13,950 Vendor European Classic Cars, Wilts; 01672 512879; europeanclassiccars.co.uk For Lovely standard fettle; two-owner car Against Not the quickest P6, or the cheapest
If youʼre after an early P6, this must be one of the best. Its City Grey paint, panels and chrome all look great, and the tan leather interior is similarly smart: standard, with just the right amount of patina. There are static front belts and no rears, and the clean, uncluttered dash hosts its original pull-out Pye stereo. Under the bonnet itʼs tidy rather than concours, plus there is a selection of new-old-stock spares beneath the boot floor (still wearing its rubber mat).
THE KNOWLEDGE
TIMELINE
1963 Rover 2000: leather seats, single carb 1966 2000TC: new head, manifolds, wire-wheel option (alloys in US); 2000 Automatic 1966 FLM Panelcraft estate (c150 to 1976) 1968 Three Thousand Five: auto, firmer suspension, bigger radiator/brakes/wheels 1969 3500S for US market: power steering, electric windows, air-con (2043 built to ’71) 1970 MkII: new grille, bonnet
