Conference terri::cars_uk

                     <<< Note 1005.0 by RDGENG::CONNOR$P >>>
                       -< Rover 3.5 V8? Any advice etc. >-

This is based on �200 S reg 3500 V8 I had for three months a couple of
years ago.

    
>> what they are like on petrol? 

	Terrible, they use lots of it.

>> What are they like for rust? 

	Mine was actually not too bad, just on the bonnet and bottom
	of the doors. The exhaust pipe is expensive (�40 for a bit
	about a foot long, significantly increased the value of the car!)


>>    Also, I've been used to driving a little Chevette 1300cc around for a
>>    while now, and when I pull out to overtake in 3rd or 4th gear I find I
>>    haven't got any pulling power in them gears, what is the Rover's like
>>    for that, and what is there Top-Speed?

	Brilliant, get an auto, put your foot down, listen to that V8 and
	watch Chevettes turn into little dots in the mirror!

	I found mine lots of fun, but I'd advise spending a bit more
	than �200 on it!! You should be able to get a D (maybe E?) reg
	Vitesse which I would think to be good value.


	Graham (who's 3500 blew up terminally running away from Shire Hall
	on a sunny afternoon ... the hard shoulder of the M25 can be very
	boring at times ... )

    Not many manual SD1 V8's about, apart from Vitesse (=expensive).
    
    Watch out for wear in the hydraulic tappet mechanism, which can cause a
    valve not to open properly (can be determined by listening to each bank
    in turn with a metal rod).  Apart from this, the engine is a very
    reliable unit.
    
    Automatics should change up very smoothly, jerkiness can mean new box
    or propshaft is needed.  Electrics often unreliable.
    
    Early SD1's were bad for rust, especially wheel arches, door bottoms,
    the front of the bonnet and around the tailgate glass.  Later models
    (with the different shaped rear window) are better.
    
    I think the older (pre SD1) V8 is an altogether nicer car (but I'm
    biassed, I have owned 2 Rovers of this vintage - a manual 2000TC and an 
    Automatic V8).
    
    My father-in-law is selling a W reg Vanden Plas, Body OK, needs a bit
    of mechanical work, probably only wants a few hundred for it.  Mail me
    if you're interested.
    
    
    
    John

We had a 1983 2600SE manual for three months back in the summer of 1988. We
bought the car when we can back from Oman for a holiday. This worked out
cheaper than hiring a Fiat Uno for the period. 

Car hire would have cost for UNO 45 (very small) 12 weeks at �95 inclusive
VAT, CDW, unlimited mileage, etc. total �1140 - 10% discount for long term
Total = �1036.
Car cost me (then) �3k. It was already taxed for 6 months, insurance cost
�80. We sold it back to garage for �2.2k when we finshed. So �880 + �80 for
a battery and tune-up = �960 and we drove in much more comfortable car for 
about 6k miles. If you plan to try this deal make sure the garage gives you
a letter stating the minimum price they give you back before agreeing to
buy. 
The SE was well equiped for a 1983. Electric windows, sun roof, headlight 
washers, trip computer, spot lights (or fog?) and a good radio/cassette.
On a run it gave 28mpg and in town about 20mpg. Top end ..don't know I
slowed down one day when I reached a indicated 115MPH. 0-60 10 secs approx.

There is a perceived reliability problem with these cars but I think I
would like to try a late Vitesse 86/87 on a longer term basis.
Figures? 18-25 MPG. 0-60 7.something secs. Top end - 135MPH. Price? look
around and suck a lot through you teeth and say "I really wanted a 2.3 ( or
2.0) model but if you'll accept �****." You'll get a very nice car for less
than �5,000. 
Relaxing yep! I would read all I could, car mags ,reports etc look at a lot 
of then and then....

GO FOR IT.
Dave

    I HAD a 3500 (SD1) here in the States for 3 years - one of the 1200
    sold.  Bought it second hand and it was driven daily.
    
    Things to watch out for:
    
    	Lucas magnetic pickup distributor - replace with Lumenition!
    
    	Automatic transmission - not that good and reliable, a
    		manual would be better
    
    	Power door lock and window switches broke easily
    
    Gas mileage was lousy, but it was a blast to drive!  Very difficult to
    get parts or repair in the States, except for the motor - asked for
    Buick parts!
    
    Would own another today, if I can find a 5 speed!
    
    	-Barry-
    

    Thanks for the replies lads, I've still got another month to go before 
    I get the beast, so you can roll in a few more replies. One more
    question:
    		Do all models come with Elec. Windows, C/Locking, Pwr ass.
    Steering etc?
    
    Regards
    
    R.Connor

    I own a 2300 SD1 and you should bear in mind that parts for these
    beasts are expensive. Some examples, water pump = �40, radiator
    = �120 (2 years ago). Had some work done by a garage, Clutch
    replacement = �280, Head gasket = �390. I have other prices...
    
    But, a joy to drive.
    Calvin