Highlights
- Very desirable Twin Plenum Vitesse model
- Restored by KSW Engineering in 2002
- Believed to be 1 of only 3 ever made with the GM180TT gearbox
- Only three owners
The Appeal
Voted European Car of the Year in 1977, the Rover SD1 offered great functionality for families looking for a large hatchback. At the time the hatchback format was not as popular as today but clearly Rover was onto something with the SD1. The Vitesse Twin Plenum model is the crème de la crème of the SD1, offering their smooth 3.5L V8 engine with improved performance.
This example has the 3 speed GM180TT automatic gearbox, allowing for effortless driving and adding to the relaxing ambience of the SD1. Whilst the SD1 sold in abundance, the Twin Plenum models are extremely hard to come by these days and even more so with the later automatic gearbox, making them arguably the most desirable SD1's ever made.
With a top speed of 130 mph and 0-60 mph in just 7.6s, the V8 SD1 can still hold its own, even with today’s faster flowing traffic.
This example has the 3 speed GM180TT automatic gearbox, allowing for effortless driving and adding to the relaxing ambience of the SD1. Whilst the SD1 sold in abundance, the Twin Plenum models are extremely hard to come by these days and even more so with the later automatic gearbox, making them arguably the most desirable SD1's ever made.
With a top speed of 130 mph and 0-60 mph in just 7.6s, the V8 SD1 can still hold its own, even with today’s faster flowing traffic.
The History and Paperwork
- MOT until 17/03/2024
- Current owner purchased the car in 1995 with only 2 previous owners
- Originally registered 20/08/1987
- Selling as not used often enough
- Dry stored when not used by current owner
- Restoration previously carried out by KSW engineering in 2002
- Thorough service history, part main dealer and part independent
- Original owner’s manual present and in very good condition
- Service book present and stamped up until 1998 / 65,242 miles
- Full service, 2 new tyres and coolant hoses replaced 18/07/2019
- Extensive engine work carried out by V8 developments in 2003 (stage III cylinder heads, trumpet base and inlet manifold)
- Aftermarket exhaust fitted by V8 developments
- Various parts included with the car, new dash cluster surround and upper trim, exterior side trim and 2 suspension springs
- Indoor and outdoor cover included with vehicle
- Less than 1000 miles covered in the last 3 years
- Extensive work carried out by the previous owner throughout the 90's, documented in service history
The Interior
- Grey interior in very good to excellent condition overall
- Grey velour seats in very good condition, only one small rip to the driver's side bolster
- Carpets present throughout and in very good condition
- Headlining present and secure with some light marking present around the sun roof and to the rear section
- Door cards present and in good condition throughout, some light marking on the front passenger door card
- Steering wheel in fair condition, still has protective plastic on the Vitesse badge
- Walnut wooden trim in good condition throughout
- Upper trim above dash cluster has started to warp, a new OEM replacement is included with the vehicle but not yet fitted
- Advanced for the time trip computer present and reported to function as should
- Aftermarket Pioneer stereo head unit fitted
- All interior features reported to be working as should
- Boot in very good condition with a full-size spare wheel present and in excellent condition
The Exterior
- Targe Red paintwork in excellent condition throughout
- Minimal paint chips on the front bumper, bonnet and driver's door - only noticeable when inspecting closely
- A very small dent present on the bonnet
- 4 matching original Rover alloys in fair to very good condition
- Matching Uniroyal tyres with good tread
- Brightwork and badges in excellent condition throughout
- All glass bar the windscreen stamped with registration number - thought to be original glass from new
- Black exterior side trim not fitted but new units are included in the sale of the vehicle
- A slight scuff to the rear plastic bumper
- Roof and sun roof exterior in very good condition
- Desirable headlight washers fitted as standard
- Sun roof functions as should and retracts fully
- Underside in a clean and tidy condition
The Mechanics
- Wonderful 3.5L Rover V8 engine has received extensive work throughout its history
- Stage III cylinder heads, trumpet base and inlet manifold carried out by V8 developments in 2003, reported to give for additional 35+ BHP over the original 210 BHP
- Current owner had the ECU worked on by Mark Adams of Tornado Systems
- Aftermarket exhaust fitted by V8 developments gives for a wonderful sound
- Desirable later GM180TT 3-speed automatic gearbox gives for better ratios over the original auto gearbox
- Engine bay in a clean and tidy condition
- Twin plenum casing and rocker covers in excellent condition
- Aftermarket K&N air filter fitted
- Sound proofing present and secure
- Current owner has replaced the throttle potentiometer, reported to give for excellent throttle response
- Current owner states the engine is absent of any knocks, bangs or smoke
- Vehicle reported to accelerate and stop well and in a straight line
- Current owner reports there is a very minor oil leak that is only noticeable when inspecting closely and has no effect on engine performance
Summary
The Rover SD1 was a very popular car for many, the SD standing for Special Division it was clear Rover wanted to offer something special. With over 300,000 produced during its 10-year production run, many have fond memories of the SD1. This example being a Twin Plenum Vitesse model means it really is a cut above the rest, not least in thanks to its glorious V8 engine offering improved performance over the standard V8 models.
This example boasts only 3 owners from new and it's clear each owner has thoroughly cherished this vehicle throughout its life. The current owner has had extensive work carried out and kept it dry stored when not in use. Thought to be 1 of only 3 Twin Plenum Vitesse models mated to the GM180TT automatic gearbox, this rare vehicle is sure to attract attention wherever it goes!
This example boasts only 3 owners from new and it's clear each owner has thoroughly cherished this vehicle throughout its life. The current owner has had extensive work carried out and kept it dry stored when not in use. Thought to be 1 of only 3 Twin Plenum Vitesse models mated to the GM180TT automatic gearbox, this rare vehicle is sure to attract attention wherever it goes!
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.
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.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
