Rover P6 3500

Introduced in 1966, the P6 was the sixth and the last of the famous 'P' series Rovers to reach production. Looking positively futuristic compared to earlier models, it was immediately voted European Car of the Year. It also won awards for safety, thanks to its carefully designed passenger cell and advanced unibody design with non-stressed panels bolted to a massively strong unit frame. Other advanced features included a de Dion tube suspension at the rear, four wheel disc brakes (inboard at the rear) and a fully-synchromesh transmission. 

Initially the P6 was only available with a 104bhp 2-litre engine but in April 1968 a much more powerful 3.5-litre V8 version was launched. This all-alloy engine weighed no more than the old unit but boosted power to 146bhp and could launch the car to 60mph in 10.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 114mph. With fine handling and plenty of space inside, it was usefully faster than most other cars then on the road and soon became a big favourite with the motorway police and the Flying Squad. It remained in production until 1976 when it was replaced by the ‘flying wedge’ SD1.

First registered in March 1972, this 3500 has covered just under 97,000 miles from new in the hands of seven owners. Originally Mexico Brown with a light tan leather interior, it was resprayed black by the current vendor about four years ago. Although the car is in only average cosmetic condition, it is said to be very good mechanically with a nice smooth engine and automatic gearbox. It certainly ran and sounded well on the occasion of our visit to take these photos with a lovely woofly exhaust note.

Last serviced six months ago and with tax and MOT until June 2012, it comes with the original owner’s manual, a maintenance manual, many bills for routine maintenance back to 1994 and 14 old MOTs back to 1979 when it had covered some 31,270 miles. Always in light regular use, this is a car to enjoy as it is but which could be gradually improved over time.