1987 rover 3500 vanden plas 3 sp automatic 5d hatchback

The 1987 Rover 3500 V8 Vanden Plas represents the final chapter of one of Britain’s most charismatic executive cars!

A machine that blends old-world Rover luxury with unmistakable V8 character.

Born from the ambitious Rover SD1 programme, the 3500 replaced the revered P6 and arrived as a bold departure: a sleek, five-door fastback that took clear inspiration from contemporary Italian design. Launched initially as a V8-only model in 1976, the SD1 would go on to win European Car of the Year and cement Rover’s place in the executive class.

By the mid-1980s, the Vanden Plas sat at the very top of the range; the badge itself synonymous with coachbuilt luxury and refinement. Inside, these cars were a step above their contemporaries, offering rich leather upholstery, deep pile carpets and an unmistakably British sense of occasion.

At its heart lies the legendary 3.5-litre Rover V8, an all-alloy engine with roots tracing back to Buick, delivering smooth, effortless performance and that unmistakable burble. In Vanden Plas form, outputs of around 155hp and strong mid-range torque made the SD1 a refined yet capable performer, capable of 0–100 km/h in under 9 seconds; impressive for a luxury car of its era.

But figures alone don’t define the 3500 Vanden Plas. What truly sets it apart is its character; rear-wheel drive balance, long-legged touring ability, and a driving experience that feels both relaxed and quietly sporting. It is a car that bridges two worlds: traditional Rover craftsmanship and a more modern, driver-focused ethos.

ABOUT THIS CAR

NZ NEW
Only 5 owners from new.
Last ownership spanning 27 years
Executive class luxury saloon in very nice condition throughout
Beautifully presented vehicle
Runs and drives exceptionally well
Clean body with beautiful paintwork
Good tires on nice original rims
Sunroof
3.5-litre (3528cc) V8, all-alloy, Naturally aspirated, approx. 153–155 hp @ 5,250 rpm and 268 Nm torque
Twin SU carburettors. O–100 km/h: ~8.5–9.0 seconds (approx.)
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
3-speed automatic
5-door hatchback (fastback design)
Front-engine, longitudinal layout
16-valve V8 configuration
Distinctive V8 exhaust note and strong mid-range torque
High-spec Vanden Plas trim: leather interior, wood trim, luxury appointments.

Today, these late-production cars, particularly the V8 Vanden Plas variants, are among the most desirable SD1s. V8 models have consistently commanded stronger values than their six-cylinder counterparts, reflecting both performance and enthusiast appeal.

Rarity is becoming an increasingly important factor. Survivorship rates are low due to rust and neglect, meaning well-preserved or honest, original examples are now scarce. The Vanden Plas, especially in V8 guise, sits in a sweet spot: usable classic, distinctive design, and a proper analogue driving experience that all qualities collectors are steadily gravitating towards.

In terms of appreciation, the SD1 has long been undervalued, but sentiment is shifting. As interest in 1980s executive cars grows and the Rover V8 continues to enjoy cult status, values are firming with the best examples already separating themselves from the rest.

Ultimately, the 1987 Rover 3500 Vanden Plas is more than just a classic car...it’s a statement of an era. A car that offers presence, pedigree, and personality in equal measure. For the discerning enthusiast or collector, it represents a compelling opportunity: a rare, usable classic with genuine heritage and clear upside in the years ahead.

TRANSPORT / WORLDWIDE SHIPPING CAN BE ORGANISED ON THIS VEHICLE ON BUYER'S BEHALF AT BUYERS COST.

Viewing is STRICTLY BY PRIOR APPOINTMENT only.

PLEASE READ: The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.