Rover P6 3500 V8
The Rover P6, produced from 1963 to 1977, was one of the most innovative and acclaimed British cars of the 1960s. It won the inaugural European Car of the Year award in 1964 and established the template for the compact executive saloon that would later be perfected by BMW with the 5 Series.
The P6 was remarkably advanced for its time. Chief engineer Spen King (who would later create the Range Rover) designed a base unit construction that combined a stressed-skin inner structure with bolt-on exterior panels — a concept inspired by the Citroen DS. The suspension was equally innovative: horizontal coil springs at the front (to lower the bonnet line) and a De Dion rear axle with Watt's linkage, providing the handling precision of independent suspension with the simplicity of a solid rear axle.
The original P6 launched with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, but the car was transformed in 1968 when Rover installed its newly acquired 3.5-litre aluminium V8 engine — the former Buick unit that Rover had purchased the rights to manufacture. The resulting Rover 3500 was a revelation: here was a refined executive saloon with genuine 120 mph performance, effortless overtaking ability, and a characterful V8 soundtrack.
The 3500 was available with either the three-speed Borg Warner automatic gearbox (designated 3500) or a four-speed manual (3500S). The manual version is the more sought-after today, offering a more engaging driving experience and better performance, though the automatic's convenience suited the car's executive character.
The P6's interior was functional rather than luxurious, with a distinctive flat dashboard and clear instrumentation. The build quality was generally high, with careful attention to crash safety including a collapsible steering column, crumple zones, and impact-absorbing dashboard padding — all progressive features for the era.
The P6 3500 was a popular choice with police forces across Britain, where its combination of performance, reliability, and a comfortable ride for long motorway patrols made it ideal for traffic duties. Many enthusiasts first encountered the Rover V8 sound through the exhaust note of a police P6 disappearing into the distance.
Over 322,000 P6s were produced in total (including four-cylinder models), making it one of the most successful Rovers. The 3500 variant is the most collectible, particularly in manual 3500S form. These cars offer an accessible and rewarding classic ownership experience, combining genuine performance with refined British character.
Body corrosion is the primary concern despite the bolt-on panel design — the inner structure corrodes, particularly in sills, inner wings, and floor pans. The bolt-on panels themselves are aluminium (bonnet, boot lid) or steel (doors, wings). The V8 engine is robust but check for oil leaks, overheating, and worn camshaft lobes. The Borg Warner automatic can be weak — check for slip and harsh changes. The manual gearbox is more reliable. De Dion rear suspension bearings can wear. Front suspension horizontal springs can fatigue. Interior trim quality is generally good but replacement materials are available. The 3500S (manual) commands a premium over the automatic 3500. Parts availability is excellent through the Rover P6 Owners' Club and specialist suppliers.
Produced 1963-1977 at Solihull. Won first European Car of the Year (1964). V8 model (3500) introduced 1968. Designed by David Bache with engineering by Spen King. Base unit construction with bolt-on panels. De Dion rear suspension. Over 322,000 total production including all variants.