Project Description
Rover P6 3500
An every-day classic Rover P6 3500 automatic
Price
SOLDYear
1971Mls/Kms
78,052 kilometersHistory File
This original LHD Swiss example, now German registered, shows a documented odometer reading of just 78,052 kilometers. Still with its original (German language) Service Book and Drivers Handbook “Wartungs und Pflegedienst und Betriebsanleitung” it displays 6 Swiss service stamps up to 1982 and 47,120 kilometers. The history is further backed up with service invoices from 1986 and 1993 showing the car with 50,823 kilometers. Imported to Germany in 2002 by a Cologne classic dealer, it is then purchased by a prominent Rover P6 collector known to Cathedral Classics, before being sold to the last owner who has fastidiously maintained the car since 2009. A detailed list of his work carried out over the last decade is partly listed below in our Engine and Gearbox description and fully listed within the cars file. It is a superb driver and can easily cope with modern day traffic and driving. It really is a classic car for everyday commuting with bags of torque and sublime power steering. Two sets of keys along with the cars original book pack complete the package for any keen Rover collector. The car also comes with diverse spares collected over the years.
Exterior
Our Series II 3500 example is finished in the ever popular Mexico Brown. Some areas of new paint have been applied over the years and perhaps don’t match the original panels as good as they should but, a recent detailed polish has improved thingsdramatically, but it may be a paint project that any new potential owner could consider. All things considered, it hasn’t bothered the last owner for some ten years. Rover were not shy about letting everyone know about their new V8 3500 model when released which is evident by the total amount of badges on the car. An astonishing 10 badges are on display – and ALL are factory fitted. In accordance with the previous owners 10 year tenure and high level of maintenance, one of his first jobs was to the have the car completely wax sealed (Mike Sanders) which has set the car in very good stead. Both bumpers and over-riders are in superb order with period Lucas front fog lights sitting proudly at the front. No one can deny the build quality of these early models with that unmistakable clunk when closing the doors.
Interior
Finished in Buckskin coloured leather, the interior displays a lovely patina. Confirming the cars Series II status, the circular gauges and rotary switches have been completely overhauled; everything works, including the clock, interior lights and tank reserve switch. In terms of safety, new inertia seatbelts have been fitted in the rear, along with replacement (difficult to source) rear headrests which are unfortunately not the original colour – but close. Ergonomically advanced for the period, features such as a driver’s face air vent behind the steering wheel, a driver’s glove box and adjustable steering column made the P6 range an all-round hit, including with the UK Police force. The factory fitted Philips push button radio, original wooden steering wheel and factory fitted (Swiss market) hazard warning lights all add to confirm the authenticity of this understated every-day classic car.
Documents
Engine & Transmission
Buick’s compact 3.5 Litre – 3528cc V8 was specifically modified by Rover to squeeze under the P6 bonnet and was an immediate hit when launched. Combined with a Borg Warner 35 automatic 3 speed gearbox and factory option power steering, the combination is now world renowned effortless balanced power. This particular example comes with plenty of invoices from the last decade to back up just how well this example drives. Along with regular specialist service maintenance, in recent years it’s also received: Pertronix electronic ignition; new ignition cables; electric fuel pump; new engine seals; new steering rack seals; front and rear axle bushes replaced; transmission completely resealed; new radiator; part stainless steel exhaust and much more.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes
Our 1971 example sits proudly on almost new Kankook Optimo (K715) 185/80 R14 tyres covering Rover P6 wheel trims on steel wheels. A recently fitted brake booster, depicted on our website, now offers good period stopping power. The spare is supplied with a brand new tyre.