Not Sold | 1987 Rover SD1 Vanden Plas (Series I)

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Not Sold (Est: £10,000)

1987 Rover SD1 Vanden Plas (Series I)

United Kingdom • 6 Jun 2015 • Lot 216

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This is a rare, Pharaoh Gold 1982 Rover SD1 Vanden Plas, a Series I model mothballed shortly after purchase and now presented in remarkable condition. Its unique crushed velvet interior, combined with its time-warp state, makes it a standout classic.

Condition

9

The car is described as being in "absolute time-warp condition" and is presented as a rare example, reviewed favorably by Car & Classic. It was mothballed shortly after purchase and has recently re-emerged, suggesting minimal use and excellent preservation.

/ 10

Transmission:

[Transmission]

Chassis No:

RRMWV3BA161420

Odometer:

[Odometer Reading]

Reg Number:

SRJ 730X

RHD/LHD:

RHD

David Bache was to head the design team for the SD1 and found himself inspired by exotic machinery such as the Ferrari Daytona and the late 1960s design study by Pininfarina for the BMC 1800 which also guided the design of the Citroën CX.

Spen King was responsible for the engineering.

The two had previously collaborated on the Range Rover.

The project was first code-named RT1 (for Rover Triumph Number 1) but then soon changed to SD1 (for Specialist Division Number 1) as Rover and Triumph were put in the new 'Specialist Division' of British Leyland.

Early in 1982, Rover unveiled the Cowley-built, face-lifted line to the public.

These cars benefited mostly from small cosmetic changes on the exterior as well as a quite extensively redesigned interior.

Car spotters can distinguish the two series by the headlights, which were chrome-rimmed and flush fitting on the later, recessed on the earlier series, the deeper rear window now fitted with a rear wash wipe.

Originally purchased new ...