Lot 614: 1966 Rover 3500 Saloon
An engineering tour de force, yet somewhat lacking in the refinement long-associated with Rovers, the all-new 2000 debuted in 1963. Although the newcomer possessed an exemplary ride and a sumptuous and well-laid-out interior, its four-cylinder engine was noticeably harsher than the larger P5's 3-litre six. Enlargement to 2.2 litres liberated more power, but what was really needed was a better power unit. A capacious engine bay had been part of the design brief, so when Rover acquired the rights to Buick's light-alloy V8, its installation in the 2000 was accomplished relatively easily. Launched in automatic-only form in 1968, the 3500 was an immense improvement on its predecessor, the lazy, under-stressed V8 providing much greater flexibility and boosting top speed to close on 120mph.
This car has a German-market chassis plate stating that it is a Rover 2200TC, chassis number ‘45431512E’. However, the car is now right-hand drive and has a Rover 3.5-litre V8 engine installed. The odometer currently shows circa 100 miles. Finished in turquoise with black Everflex roof and beige interior, the vehicle is unregistered and offered without documents. A spare unstamped service voucher book and owner’s manuals for the 3500/3500S (x2) and 2200 (x1) models are included in the sale.
| Auction |
Sports, Competition & Collectors' Motor Cars Bonhams, Goodwood Festival Of Speed, Chichester |
|---|---|
| Type | Car |
| Lot Number | 614 |
| Estimate | £4000-£6000 |
| Outcome | SOLD |
| Hammer Price | £2800 |
| Hammer Price (inc premium) | £3220 |
| Year | 1966 |
| Condition rating | 0 |
| Registration number | |
| Mileage | - |
| Chassis number | 45431512E (see text) |
| Engine number | |
| Engine capacity (cc) | |
| Engine - cylinders | |
| Number of doors |