Rover P5B

vs

Rover 75

UK vs United Kingdom — 1968 vs 2004

Rover P5B (1968)
Rover 75 (2004)
Specifications
P5B 3.5 Litre Coupe75 V8
Horsepower160 hp260 hp
Torque210 lb-ft295 lb-ft
Engine Size3,528 cc4,601 cc
0-60 mph11.7 sec6.9 sec
Top Speed110 mph145 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec
Weight3,858 lbs3,571 lbs
Wheelbase2,819 mm2,750 mm
Length4,775 mm4,744 mm
Units Produced9,099838
Value (Excellent)$35,000$25,000
Collectibility7/106/10
Rarity6/108/10
The Verdict

The 2004 Rover 75 V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Rover P5B 3.5 Litre Coupe counters with 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

The 1968 Rover P5B 3.5 Litre Coupe and 2004 Rover 75 V8 share a manufacturer in Rover, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Rover brand. The 2004 Rover 75 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 260 hp compared to 160 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rover P5B uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,528 cc, while the Rover 75 relies on a V8 DOHC (Ford AJ-V8) with 4,601 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2004 Rover 75 V8 edges ahead at 6.9 seconds versus 11.7 seconds. The Rover 75 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 287 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 838 units built, the 2004 Rover 75 V8 is considerably scarcer than the Rover P5B's 9,099 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Rover P5B 3.5 Litre Coupe commands a significant premium over the 2004 Rover 75 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.