Few sights can the hairs on the back of your neck quicker than the front end of a Rover Vitesse in the rear-view mirror. Whether it’s the echoes of the monstrous TWR Touring Cars, or the fading memories of menacing SD1 police cars, it’s something that resonates with people of a certain age.
Following on from the technologically impressive P6, the great-looking David Bache-styled SD1 was a more conventional product wrapped in more adventurous packaging, with front MacPherson struts and a live rear axle shrouded by hatchback bodywork. When properly set up, though, the Rover could be turned into an effective track weapon. BL’s motorsport division discovered this in 1980, and it had such great potential that a full assault was planned with Tom Walkinshaw Racing. A suitable high-performance road car to homologate it was the only thing missing.
Although the Rover 3500 was launched in 1976 with a 150bhp V8, it wasn’t until the range was facelifted in 1982 that the sporting Vitesse model went on sale. The suspension was lower and stiffer, while 190bhp was teased from the 3.5-litre V8 thanks to new Lucas fuel injection.
It’s a genuine product of the 1980s, with 15-inch deep-dish alloy wheels, a large chin spoiler and an even more sizable rubber rear wing. Added downforce aside, they really add to the miniature muscle-car vibe. It was available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic from launch, but the luxury- focused ‘wood and leather’ Vanden Plas in 1984 saw the Vitesse’s auto option dropped.
TWR initially took the SD1 to a very clear win in the 1983 BTCC but, after losing an argument with the scrutineers, Austin-Rover pulled out in mid-1984. Targeting the European Touring Car Championship, the SD1 racked up significant Group A victories and podiums in both 1985 and 1986.
For its replacement, Rover had been working in partnership with Honda to develop the new front-wheel-drive 800. Before production of the old-fashioned V8 brute came to an end, though, Rover built a limited run of 500 Twin Plenum Vitesses to homologate a few changes for the 1985 Touring Car. Tweaks to the engine, as well as a new twin-plenum inlet manifold, were engineered by Lotus. Power stayed unchanged at 190bhp officially, but the reality was closer to 210-220bhp. These later cars also got a much deeper front valance (as pictured above). Production ended in February 1987.
Like so many other British classics, the SD1 benefits from good parts availability and there’s no shortage of expertise when it comes to that V8 engine. Running a Vitesse today is generally straightforward – just ensure you keep on top of any rust issues. The Twin Plenum is easily the most desirable, with values that reflect that, but you shouldn’t discount an earlier Vitesse.
Motor magazine described the Vitesse as a ‘poor man’s Aston Martin’ when new, and that’s exactly why we love them today. Slightly old-fashioned British charm, awesome V8 soundtrack, not to mention some serious race pedigree: in those terms, it’s still unbelievable value.
What to look out for?
• Rust is a big killer for SD1s in general, although the later cars were significantly better built. Check the rear wheelarches, sills, rear suspension mounts, front inner wings, and floorpan.
• The Rover V8 is tough but has a few known weak spots. It’s unstressed in 3.5-litre form though, so it’s more about good general maintenance. Ensure the cooling system is tip-top.
• Just because it looks like a Vitesse or Twin Plenum, don’t assume it is. Always verify the chassis number.
Rover SD1 Vitesse Prices
A good early Vitesse usually sells for between £6000 and £10,000, with great examples pushing north of £15,000. Condition is key. Twin Plenums are the most desirable. Solid cars start from around £7000, but top cars – in completely original condition – are changing hands for upwards of £20,000 today.
Modified cars can be great value if you’re not a purist, so don’t dismiss a car with a larger V8-engine conversion, which might be in far more healthy running order than a standard ‘original’ car. As always, use your judgement and seek specialist advice.
