1977 ROVER P6 2200 SC
ENGINE 2205cc/4-cyl/ohc POWER 98bhp@5000rpm TORQUE 137lb ft@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 105mph 0-60MPH 13.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 16-24mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, 3-speed auto MOT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 31,026 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This Rover will have you wondering why you would spend quite a lot more on a Jaguar in terms of ride and smoothness. It feels relaxed yet poised, turning into corners smoothy with just enough feel in the light steering. There are no creaks from the suspension and the smoke-free engine thrums unobtrusively. Progress is respectable enough, and, if you do decide you need to choose gears yourself, the three-speed selector delivers whine-free gear changes. It also pulls up promptly and in a straight line without any shudders from the brakes.
BODYWORK CHECK
This is a very tidy-looking motor, helped in no small part by Sherwood Restorations refreshing it, including a repaint of the nearside front door bottom, but also due to the P6 being dry-stored for many years. The paint is in excellent condition being consistent and glossy across the whole car, though there are a couple of tiny touchedup chips. Panels are straight and shut lines uniform and the beltline trim lines up tidily panel to panel. The chrome and stainless steel are bright across the car with no pitting or rust and the rubber seals supporting fixtures or lining door cavities are supple.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Trimmed in black leather with camel carpets. The light patina of the Rover’s seats and controls reflects the low mileage and the seat cushions are well defined and supportive. There are no ring or fingernail scratches to the door handles, steering wheel and gearstick and the dashboard switches have all retained their print. There are one or two small cracks and gaps from plastic ‘fatigue’ but the instrument console is very presentable. The door cards and wood trim are very straight, as are the carpets and mats, and the headlining hasn’t sagged.
UNDER THE BONNET
The Rover’s engine bay isn’t going to win any competitions, but everything looks to be stock and in its proper place. Sherwood has given the P6 a recent carburettor service and all major mechanical components appear workmanlike. The engine seems to be free from leaks and all fluids are good while hoses and leads look to be relatively new. The car has had a recent brake service and sports a stainless-steel exhaust – again courtesy of Sherwood.
THE CCW VIEW
Sherwood has shaken out any storage-related issues and refreshed and renovated this handsome and very sound Rover where needed. Condition, charisma and understated ability trump out -and-out performance here.
PROS Honest, solid and nicely patinated
CONS Not exactly quick, but precious little else