Rover P6

vs

Rover P5B

UK vs United Kingdom — 1963 vs 1967

Rover P6 (1963)
Rover P5B (1967)
Specifications
P6 3500 V8P5B Coupe
Horsepower144 hp161 hp
Torque196 lb-ft210 lb-ft
Engine Size3,528 cc3,528 cc
0-60 mph9.2 sec10.5 sec
Top Speed120 mph110 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec17.5 sec
Weight2,954 lbs3,501 lbs
Wheelbase2,641 mm2,794 mm
Length4,483 mm4,724 mm
Units Produced322,30211,501
Value (Excellent)$40,000$65,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity4/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 offers quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight, while the 1967 Rover P5B Coupe counters with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Rover stable, the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 and 1967 Rover P5B Coupe represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Rover badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 producing 144 hp and the 1967 Rover P5B Coupe delivering 161 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rover P6 uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,528 cc, while the Rover P5B relies on a V8 OHV (Buick-derived aluminium) with 3,528 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 edges ahead at 9.2 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Rover P6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 547 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 11,501 units built, the 1967 Rover P5B Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Rover P6's 322,302 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Rover P5B Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.