Shipping & Logistics: For UK-based buyers, the vendor has secured competitive, fixed-rate shipping via VA Auto Traders: £1,295 for cars and £595 for motorcycles. This offer applies to all vehicles sold by this vendor during the current ‘Blaauwbank Collection’ auctions.

Global Shipping: International delivery options are also available. Please contact [email protected] for a bespoke expert quote.

Highlights

South African specification with factory-fitted climate control
Dry-climate, rot-free survivor, as described by the vendor
Triton Green over Oatmeal interior colour combination
Recent lubrication service and preventive maintenance carried out

The Appeal

This 1978 Rover SD1 3500 forms part of the carefully curated Blaauwbank Collection, which includes an eclectic mix of multi-generational cars, stored in purpose-built, climate-controlled dry-storage hangars in the arid climate of Central South Africa.

The SD1 rewrote the rulebook for British executive cars when it launched in 1976, its daring David Bache-penned fastback silhouette concealing the proven Buick-derived 3.5-litre V8. Early examples like this 1978 car are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the model in its purest form.

Our car is a South African-specification example, which brings with it some notable advantages. Having spent its life in a dry climate, it is described by the vendor as rot-free, a significant claim for any SD1 of this vintage. The South African spec also includes rare factory-fitted climate control, a feature not typically found on UK-market cars. Finished in Triton Green over an Oatmeal interior, described by the vendor as "the ultimate colour combo", it cuts a striking figure. The 3.5-litre V8 is paired with an automatic gearbox and, according to the vendor, "sings and delights." With 110,395 km on the odometer, believed by the vendor to be genuine, this SD1 3500 represents a rare opportunity to acquire an early, well-specified example of Rover's celebrated executive car.

Key Information

Mileage: 110,395 km (indicated, unwarranted, believed genuine by the vendor)
Country of registration: South Africa
Technical inspection status: offered without technical inspection
Technical specs: 3.5-litre V8 petrol, three-speed automatic transmission
Paperwork: offered with limited documentation

The Detail

Fabulous period colour scheme - pure '70s
Alloy wheels fitted
Dunlop tyres fitted on all four corners
Described by the vendor as fully loaded South African specification
Well-preserved throughout, which can be studied in the photographs

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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