Rover 2000 (1963-77)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, had several common faults that owners often encountered:

1. **Rust**: The Rover 2000 was prone to rust, particularly in the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans.
2. **Electrical Issues**: Problems with the electrical system, including faulty wiring and issues with the alternator, were common.
3. **Cooling System**: The cooling system could be problematic, with issues such as radiator leaks and overheating.
4. **Suspension**: The complex De Dion rear suspension system could be troublesome, leading to issues with handling and ride quality.
5. **Brakes**: The braking system, particularly the front disc brakes, could suffer from wear and require frequent maintenance.

Despite these faults, the Rover 2000 was still highly regarded for its innovative design and engineering.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, was produced in a single generation from 1963 to 1977. However, it had several trim levels and variants over the years. Here are some of the main trim levels and variants available:

1. **Rover 2000**: The base model with a 2.0-liter engine.
2. **Rover 2000 TC**: Introduced in 1966, this model featured a twin-carburetor version of the 2.0-liter engine, offering improved performance.
3. **Rover 2200 SC**: Introduced in 1973, this model had a single-carburetor 2.2-liter engine.
4. **Rover 2200 TC**: Also introduced in 1973, this model featured a twin-carburetor version of the 2.2-liter engine, providing even better performance.

These trim levels offered a range of options for buyers, from the more basic models to the higher-performance variants.
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Engine
The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, was equipped with a **2.0-liter inline-four engine**. This engine was praised for its smooth performance and reliability, making it a key feature of the car. The twin-carburetor version, known as the Rover 2000 TC, offered even better performance.
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Performance
The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance specifications:

- **Engine**: 2.0-liter inline-four
- **Power**: 100 bhp (101 PS/75 kW) at 5,250 rpm
- **Torque**: 163 Nm (120 lb-ft) at 3,250 rpm
- **Top Speed**: 104 mph (167 km/h)
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Approximately 13 seconds

These specifications made the Rover 2000 a well-regarded executive car with a good balance of performance and comfort.
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Rivals
In 1963, the Rover 2000 faced competition from several other executive cars in the UK market. Here are the performance specifications of some of its main rivals:

1. **Jaguar Mark 2**:
- **Engine**: 2.4-liter, 3.4-liter, or 3.8-liter inline-six
- **Power**: Up to 220 bhp (3.8-liter version)
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 125 mph (3.8-liter version)
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around 8.5 seconds (3.8-liter version)

2. **Triumph 2000**:
- **Engine**: 2.0-liter inline-six
- **Power**: 90 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 95 mph
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around 13.6 seconds

3. **Ford Zephyr**:
- **Engine**: 2.6-liter inline-six
- **Power**: 109 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 100 mph
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around 14 seconds

4. **Vauxhall Cresta**:
- **Engine**: 2.6-liter inline-six
- **Power**: 95 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around 16 seconds

These specifications highlight the competitive landscape for executive cars in the early '60s, with each model offering its own unique blend of performance and luxury.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, was designed by a talented team including **Spen King, Gordon Bashford, and David Bache**.

Here are the dimensions of the Rover 2000:

- **Wheelbase**: 103 inches (2,616 mm)
- **Length**: 180 inches (4,572 mm)
- **Width**: 66 inches (1,676 mm)
- **Height**: 56 inches (1,422 mm)
- **Kerb Weight**: 2,810 lbs (1,275 kg) for the 2000TC model

This innovative design and its dimensions contributed to the Rover 2000's reputation as a well-engineered and stylish executive car.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating Rover 2000 spares in the UK and Ireland, you have several options:

1. **Wins International**: A leading supplier of British classic car parts, including the Rover P6.
2. **EU-SPARES**: Offers a comprehensive parts catalogue for the Rover 2000-3500 Saloon (P6) │ EU-SPARES shop](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/rover/2200-3500/2000-3500-p6).
3. **J R Wadhams Ltd**: Specializes in parts for classic Rover models, including the P6.

In Northern Ireland, there are several garages that can help maintain your Rover 2000:

1. **Charles Hurst Land Rover Belfast**: Located at 62 Boucher Rd, Belfast.
2. **Donnelly Brothers Land Rover, Dungannon**: Located at 59 Moy Road, Mid Ulster.
3. **R D Services Land Rover Trade Parts**: Located at 24 Hiltonstown Rd, Portglenone, Ballymena.
4. **OC Autos**: A Land Rover & Range Rover specialist located at Unit 17A The Cutts, Belfast.

These resources should help you keep your classic Rover 2000 in top condition.
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Racing
The Rover 2000, also known as the Rover P6, did compete in racing. It was particularly successful in rallying during the 1960s and 1970s. The car's advanced engineering and robust construction made it well-suited for the rigors of rally competition. Some notable achievements include:

- **1965 Monte Carlo Rally**: The Rover 2000 finished in 10th place overall.
- **1966 Monte Carlo Rally**: The Rover 2000 finished in 4th place overall.
- **1968 London-Sydney Marathon**: The Rover 2000 finished in 2nd place overall.

These successes helped to establish the Rover 2000's reputation as a capable and reliable rally car.
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Valuation
The value of a 1963 Rover 2000 in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on its condition. Here are some approximate values based on different conditions:

- **Concours Condition**: Around £20,000
- **Excellent Condition**: Around £15,000
- **Good Condition**: Around £10,000
- **Fair Condition**: Around £5,000

These values reflect the car's desirability among classic car enthusiasts and collectors.
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Clubs
There are Rover 2000 owners clubs in Northern Ireland. One notable club is the **Classic Rover Club Northern Ireland**. This club is dedicated to all owners and enthusiasts of the Rover marque. They meet on the second Monday of each month at the Ivanhoe Hotel in Carryduff and participate in various classic and vintage events throughout Ireland.
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