Lot 301: Rover 3500S Sports 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 3.0-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, in 150bhp 3500S form, boosting top speed to 120mph-plus. This 3500S was purchased by its late owner for �6,000 in February 2010, apparently having just been rebuilt. Although no bills are available there are photographs on file depicting the car undergoing restoration. Believed virtually unused since the rebuild, this ideal entry-level classic saloon is offered with assorted expired MoTs, sundry invoices, MoT to October 2012 and Swansea V5C registration document. It should be noted that this car is said to have a five-speed manual gearbox (a four-speed unit was standard on the 3500S). No reserve.
| Auction |
Collectors' Motor Cars Bonhams, The Royal Airforce Museum, London, UK |
|---|---|
| Type | Car |
| Lot Number | 301 |
| Estimate | £3000-£5000 |
| Outcome | SOLD |
| Hammer Price | £2200 |
| Hammer Price (inc premium) | £2530 |
| Year | 1972 |
| Condition rating | 0 |
| Registration number | EHO 279K |
| Mileage | - |
| Chassis number | 48100838A |
| Engine number | 48100985 |
| Engine capacity (cc) | |
| Engine - cylinders | |
| Number of doors |