The V8 Powerunit

The 4.6 litre 90 degree V8 features a cross-bolted bottom end for enhanced rigidity and refinement, with large valve alloy cylinder heads ensuring good engine breathing in conjunction with a low back pressure, stainless steel exhaust system and a low loss intake system. This unit develops 260 Ps and 410 Nm of torque, that is fed to the road through the rear-wheels. Rover's unique traction control system - fitted as standard - ensures that this considerable torque is deployed to good effect, whatever the conditions, whilst delivering rapid acceleration up to a top speed in excess of 150mph.

As befits a car designed to offer 'power in reserve', the powerunit has been sourced from the iconic Ford Mustang; a proven unit, extensively modified to suit the Rover 75 platfom and the critical demands of Rover's discerning customers.


Exterior styling

The new full-depth open grille is reminiscent of the archetypal Rover P5B. Like the P5 and other V8-powered Rovers since, the imposing and distinctive appearance of V8 derivatives is matched by a motoring experience that has no peers in this segment of the market.

The rear of the Rover V8 is distinguished by four discreet tailpipes below the rear bumper. Outside they produce a classic V8 burble, while inside the cabin remains quiet until aroused by the throttle when it resounds to the note of a true thoroughbred.

These exterior refinements are complemented by prestigious alloy wheels and discreet exterior badging.



Rover V8 History

The Rover V8 has been represented in products between 1967-1986 and is a hallmark of British cars with 'power in reserve'. Her Majesty The Queen owns two Rover V8s. In their day Rover V8s were specified by Prime Ministers Harold Wilson, James Callaghan and Margaret Thatcher. Previous V8-engined Rovers include the P5B 3.5-litre, P6B 3500, SD1 3500, V8S, 3500 Vanden Plas, Vanden Plas EFi and the 3.5-litre Vitesse.



Rover P5B 3.5-litre

1958 saw the introduction of the large and luxurious P5 3-litre saloon. It was also the first of the Rovers that went on to receive the 3.5 litre Buick derived engine which is now considered one of the best V8 engines ever produced. The P5B, as it is often referred to, was available in saloon and coupe versions, and this car was to become a firm favourite with British Prime Ministers, including Harold Wilson, James Callaghan and Margaret Thatcher. HM the Queen was also known to drive these cars as her private transport.



Rover P6B 3500

Rover introduced the V8 version of the P6 in April 1968 as the 3500 saloon. This luxurious saloon shared the body and most of the features of the smaller engined 2000 P6 saloon that was introduced in 1963. It was available initially as an automatic, with the manual 3500S arriving later. The Buick designed engine was already in use in the Rover P5B Saloon and Coupe giving those cars excellent performance, but in this lighter car it was even more impressive.



Rover 3500 SD1

Designed under the guidance of Spen King, the new 'SD1' (the acronym stood for 'Specialist Division, Project 1') was a big five-door hatchback which effectively took the place of the Rover 2200/3500 range and the Triumph 2000/2500.

The original car mated the well known light-alloy V8, in a front engine/rear-drive layout, with a well located beam rear axle. Faster and easier to handle than previous Rovers, the new 3500 made many friends as a sports saloon.

The Vitesse, the fastest SD1, was introduced in October 1982, with a 190 bhp fuel-injected version of the V8 engine. Complete with rear spoiler, the Vitesse had a top speed of 132 mph, and outstanding roadholding to match. Before long, highly-tuned Vitesses were winning Touring Car races all over Europe.