Rover 3500S
ENGINE 3528cc/V8/OHV POWER 143bhp@5200rpm TORQUE 197lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 115mph 0-60MPH 9sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-27mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT Exempt ODOMETER 5885 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
As you might expect, time behind the wheel is characterised by the V8’s huge torque. The engine never feels overwhelmed and offers strong acceleration with a healthy exhaust note. Manual gear selection on this 3500
S is tight and positive and the steering is light (owing to power assistance) but precise and still delivers a good amount of feedback to the driver. It rides well, the brakes are strong and nothing seems to be amiss.
BODYWORK CHECK
This P6 has received a recent documented re-spray, having previously been Tobacco Leaf yellow. The paint looks fantastic, with only a small area of mottling below the C-pillars. The panels are straight with uniform gaps, there’s not a spec of corrosion to report and the vinyl on the roof and C-pillars is taut and free from marks. Both bumpers show minor pitting that does not detract from the overall favourable impression but the other brightwork presents well. Window and screen rubbers are all uncracked. Lucas
Quartz halogen headlights and a tow bar have been fitted at some point but we did notice some moisture in the nearside side tail lamp.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
It’s a similar story inside. The sculpted seats stand out for their faultless appearance. The door cards are similarly tidy, as are the wood-effect veneers. Even the sill covers aren’t overly scuffed. Carpets are pristine and protected by rubber overmats and the headlining is impeccable. The gauges all work, including the Kienzle clock, and aftermarket Pioneer speakers in the rear shelf are connected to a period Radiomobile. If there’s anything to fault, it’s that the felt edging on the nearside
rear door aperture could be a little tidier.
UNDER THE BONNET
Sound insulation on the underside of the bonnet is collapsing and there’s slight corrosion evident on both exhaust manifolds. Those minor points aside, this is a very presentable engine bay. Wiring is tidy, there are no visible leaks and nor could we find any flaking paint or rust. The engine benefits greatly from work in 2018 that comprised a new radiator plus Lumenition electronic ignition, new springs and new dampers, totalling £3400. The large history folder also contains a November 2019 invoice for a new fuel tank.
THE CCW VIEW
A manual transmsission 3500 S is the P6 that fans covet the most and this is one of the best we’ve driven. The logbook shows eight former owners and the history is stuffed with invoices, including from marque specialists, showing continuous spend over the years. We see no reason not to recommend this nicely sorted Rover. Chris Hope