Rover P5

vs

Rover P6

UK vs UK — 1963 vs 1963

Rover P5 (1963)
Rover P6 (1963)
Specifications
P5 3-Litre CoupeP6 3500 V8
Horsepower134 hp144 hp
Torque175 lb-ft196 lb-ft
Engine Size2,995 cc3,528 cc
0-60 mph16.5 sec9.2 sec
Top Speed104 mph120 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec
Weight3,451 lbs2,954 lbs
Wheelbase2,794 mm2,641 mm
Length4,699 mm4,483 mm
Units Produced69,141322,302
Original MSRP$5,100
Value (Excellent)$55,000$40,000
Collectibility7/106/10
Rarity5/104/10
The Verdict

The 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe counters with greater rarity, 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 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe and 1963 Rover P6 3500 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. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe producing 134 hp and the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 delivering 144 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rover P5 uses a Inline-6 IOE displacing 2,995 cc, while the Rover P6 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Rover P6 3500 V8 edges ahead at 9.2 seconds versus 16.5 seconds. The Rover P6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 497 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 69,141 units built, the 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Rover P6's 322,302 examples.