Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Factory standard and very original 193bhp rarity
- Very low mileage car in great order
- Popular Moonraker Blue paintwork
- Extensive mechanical restoration
- Rust-free bodywork with recent improvements
- Interior in excellent condition with new headlining and carpets
The Appeal
The Rover SD1 nearly didn’t happen. After presenting various conventionally styled ideas, designer David Bache threw caution to the wind and offered British Leyland’s directors a radical fastback that channeled the vibe of the Ferrari Daytona.
They bit and one of Britain’s greatest saloon cars was born. The appropriately-named Vitesse arrived in 1984 to homologate the successful race car. Here was a proper British bull dog, a 190bhp V8 that lived up to those supercar looks.
Thanks to questionable build quality, low mileage survivors like this car are exceptionally rare. Finished in popular Moonraker Blue it is unmodified and highly original. The mechanicals have recently been overhauled with attention also paid to the areas of the bodywork and interior. The result is a beautifully presented Vitesse that is ready to rumble and burble on your next road trip.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in Switzerland on 17th June 1985
- Acquired in March 2003, potentially from the second registered keeper
- Matching numbers car with overhauled mechanicals
- Regularly used in predominantly dry weather
- Vendor has continuously and regularly improved the condition as detailed below
- Most of the work carried out by a top-tier automotive engineer (Connaught)
- We are advised that there is a valid technical inspection
- Spare instruments with mph/kph speedometer included at no extra cost
The Condition
- Bodywork in excellent condition, free from rust
- Near flawless original paintwork, with only the rear hatch repainted
- Chrome trim in very good order
- Straight and original panelwork
- Repairs to windscreen surround to remove localised areas of small corrosion
- New windscreen installed and sunroof serviced
- Interior in excellent condition, featuring new headlining and carpets
- Wood trim on doors replaced, original pieces included with the car
- Dashboard replaced, original included with the car
- Good seats and carpets with new carpets provided in boot
- Five new Continental tyres included
The Mechanics
- 3,532cc Rover V8 developing 193bhp with fuel injection
- Desirable 5spd manual gearbox
- Matching numbers car with extensive mechanical overhaul
- Petrol injection system serviced and injectors replaced as necessary
- New cylinder and manifold gaskets
- Kenlowe fan fitted
- Rear axle and differential replaced, original included with the car
- New torque tube support
- Serviced steering rack with servo
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email [email protected]. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
