Rover P6

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WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE?

Because they’re advanced classics. They’re also such a staple of the classic car scene you’ll be welcomed at any event. With a choice of excellent clubs, great spares support and such style, it’s one of those classics nobody can ignore. On top of this, the Rover is pretty practical – and after you hear a P6 door close you’ll think everything else feels cheap.

WHAT CAN I GET?

There’s a choice of two engines with three displacements and three states of tune. The four cylinder cars are more common, available as 2.0 and 2.2-litre variants depending upon age and with single or twin carburettors but autos were only SC models; if we wanted an auto we’d go for the Buick-derived V8 3500. Four speed manuals always lacked an overdrive, strangely. Series 1s look more period while Series 2s tend to seem slightly cheaper due to more plastics used.

WHAT ARE THEY LIKE TO DRIVE?

So advanced was the design back in 1963 that a good P6 doesn’t feel terribly dated to drive 52 years on. It’s easy to find a good driving position and in terms of safety were way ahead of the game back then although the large steering wheel (smaller if you have the optional power steering on V8s only) makes one feel a tad unwieldy.

TC models have more than adequate pace for day to day use and the V8s remain an experience to savour; in contrast the SC autos are woefully short of go but okay for cruising. In contrast, around town P6s feel cumbersome. Sharp brakes and an excellent if roll prone suspension make these Rovers quite fun to drive. Our pick would be a 2200 TC to combine performance with relative economy although be careful as 100 Octane five star was the required brew unless you use a pour-in booster additive. The 3500S is a great Q car.

WHAT ARE THEY LIKE TO LIVE WITH?

Surprisingly easy. People make a fuss about the inboard rear discs and the complicated suspension, but the latter is nowhere near as bad as people think. P6s can rust, but easy enough to spot and sort if you know where to look – like under the rear seat. They’re not overly thirsty for their size and class – 25mpg should be within easy reach for most models. Spares are well catered for by the likes of MGBD Parts, Ely Service of Cambs and Wins International. We wouldn’t recommend one as family transport mind as they don’t have much rear seat accommodation and the boot is laughable. But for two it’s a comfortable and practical classic that could conceivably be used as a daily.

VERDICT

A P6 is probably the ultimate 60’s-70’s classic saloon. It makes you feel special, drives like something far more modern, and is still fairly affordable. Give one a go – you won’t regret it.