Rover P6

vs

Daimler Sovereign

United Kingdom vs United Kingdom — 1968 vs 1966

Rover P6 (1968)
Daimler Sovereign (1966)
Specifications
P6 3500Sovereign Standard
Horsepower144 hp245 hp
Torque200 lb-ft283 lb-ft
Engine Size3,528 cc4,235 cc
0-60 mph10.1 sec9.7 sec
Top Speed117 mph123 mph
¼ Mile17.2 sec16.8 sec
Weight2,976 lbs3,325 lbs
Wheelbase2,629 mm2,717 mm
Length4,495 mm4,694 mm
Units Produced322,3025,824
Value (Excellent)$35,000$40,000
Collectibility6/105/10
Rarity4/106/10
The Verdict

The 1966 Daimler Sovereign Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Rover P6 3500 counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Among Executive Saloon enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1968 Rover P6 3500 and 1966 Daimler Sovereign Standard is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1966 Daimler Sovereign Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 144 hp, a 101-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rover P6 uses a V8 OHV (Buick-derived aluminium) displacing 3,528 cc, while the Daimler Sovereign relies on a Inline-6 DOHC (Jaguar XK) with 4,235 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Daimler Sovereign Standard edges ahead at 9.7 seconds versus 10.1 seconds. The Rover P6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 349 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,824 units built, the 1966 Daimler Sovereign Standard is considerably scarcer than the Rover P6's 322,302 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.