With its modular construction and advanced suspension, the Rover P6 was the company’s most innovative and radical design ever when it was new. Created by an engineering team led by Spen King and Gordon Bashford, the P6 challenged convention in almost every way.
Although not as radical as the engineers wanted it - for example, Bashford originally said that he wanted hydro-pneumatic suspension and a Boxer engine - it was created in such a way that it was like no other car on the road.
That was largely down to it being constructed on a base frame to which all of the outer panels were bolted. Not only did the layout make the P6 easy to repair as damaged body panels could simply be unbolted and replaced , but it also made it a terrific car to drive. Indeed, the P6 remains a modern-feeling car even today.
In 1966, it evolved into a proper sports saloon, with the addition of a General Motors-sourced 3.5-litre V8 engine. The car was an instant hit – a proper compact sports saloon.
This one is a facelifted V8 3500 Automatic, following the addition of the plastic “egg crate” grille in 1971. An effortless cruiser, it’s presented in fabulous overall condition having recently had the base unit restored by the vendor.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C showing previous owner for over 12 years
Recently recommissioned
Invoices and receipts for parts and accessories, including an entire pile of invoices from renowned British parts specialist Wins UK
Clear HPI certificate
Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt
Despite this, car has MOT valid to May 2024 (one advisory for brake pipes, since rectified)
British Motor Heritage Certificate showing the car was manufactured in November 1971 and supplied new by Henlys in London a few weeks later in early 1972 to its first owner
HPI clear with copy of certificate
Rover 3500 parts catalogue
Haynes Worksop Manual
Some old V5s
THE INTERIOR
Black leather seats – small repaired area to driver’s seat but not immediately noticeable
Matching door cards and lower dash area
Original ‘ET’ head restraints
Wood-effect dash inserts and door caps
Five-dial dash
Thick black carpets in good overall order
Period push-button radio
Excellent carpets with new tailored floor mats
Lovely order with very gentle patina
Original tools and jack in boot
Optional heated rear window
THE EXTERIOR
Resprayed in original Davos White to a good standard
Base frame in very strong condition having been recently restored
Excellent panels and inner wings
Smart black vinyl roof
All correct exterior trim
Very good chrome
Sports wheel trims
Badge bar with period AA and RAC badges
Nearly new Nexen tyres with 7mm tread all round
New window rubbers and wiper blades
Overall very well-presented with only minor imperfections
THE MECHANICS
3,528cc V8
Three-speed auto
Freshly serviced with new oil and filter and Heritage 20w50 oil
Eight new NGK spark plugs
Cleaned rear brake pipes
New advance/retard unit
Runs and drives great, with effortless performance and great handling
Four-wheel disc brakes
SUMMARY
This is a really lovely example of the Rover P6, with the best engine and finished in a great colour scheme. It’s a smart car, in superb condition and thoroughly checked over ready for its next owner.
As anyone will tell you, where P6s are concerned, the V8s are the ones to have – and this one is a truly handsome and very well-sorted example.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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