History and Background
The Rover 3500 P6 is one of the most influential British mid-size cars of the 1960s and 1970s. The Rover P6 was named one of the first “Cars of the Year” in 1964, immediately securing the model a special place in European automotive history. Designer David Bache broke with Rover’s then-conventional conservative styling and gave the P6 a design and appearance that clearly differed from the brand’s earlier models. The 1973 Rover 3500 P6 is part of the later evolution of this model, in which the original four-cylinder engines were supplemented by the V8 version.
Technically, the Rover P6 was ahead of its time. The car featured a De Dion rear suspension and a body structure in which the panels were bolted to a subframe. This set the Rover 3500 P6 apart from the classic monocoque constructions used in many British cars. The Rover 3500 P6 later gained fame primarily for its 3.5-liter aluminum V8 engine, originally sourced from Buick, which gave the model a unique position within the Rover lineup.
The Rover 3500 P6 was appreciated not only for its engineering but also for its distinctive design details. The spare tire mounted on the trunk is one of the model’s most famous features. This design was adopted to make room for the battery, which no longer fit in the engine compartment on the V8 version. The parking lights on the front fenders and the two bulges in the hood are also characteristic features of the P6. For Rover, this model represented a clear step toward modernization, while at the same time allowing the brand to remain connected to a more traditional mid-range business market.
Features and Details
This Rover 3500 P6 is finished in Mexico Brown, a color that fits well with the model’s 1970s styling. The car is equipped with original Connolly-hide tan leather upholstery with matching original headrests. The Philips radio is also original and in good working order. According to available records, the car has had three owners and has covered 139,000 kilometers.
The Rover 3500 P6 was stored for many years in a dry warehouse in South Limburg. The trunk is fitted with a brand-new wheel and tire. In addition, the rear brakes have been overhauled, the De Dion axle rubbers have been replaced, the battery has been replaced, a new alternator has been installed, four new tires have been mounted, electronic ignition has been installed, and the exhaust system has been replaced. The car is equipped with the Borg Warner automatic transmission that comes standard on the V8 version of the Rover 3500 P6.
Summary
This 1973 Rover 3500 P6 is a fine example of the progressive British mid-range cars of the 1960s and 1970s, with V8 technology, a De Dion rear axle, and distinctive bodywork details as its most notable features. This example combines a number of original elements with various restoration work and its corresponding historical specification. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend that you attend the viewing day.
PLEASE NOTE: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions.
This car is being offered in the online auction “Classics Sports Cars Summer Auction.” The car is available for viewing during the viewing days. The listed amount represents the lower end of the estimated value. Bidding starts at €2,500.
Bid now via:
www.classiccar-auctions.com/en/lot-details/34678
Auction
- Opening: Friday, July 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
- Closing: Wednesday, August 19, 2026, starting at 8:00 p.m.
Location
Anthony Fokkerweg 7
1422 AE Uithoorn
The Netherlands
Viewing Days
- Friday, August 14, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, August 18, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information about the auction, viewing days, and the full selection, visit:
www.classiccar-auctions.com
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Transportation
After the auction, we can arrange transportation.
- Within the Netherlands: €250, excluding VAT.
- Outside the Netherlands: transportation upon request.
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