1974 | Rover 3500 S Estoura

Unusually we have now our second version of these very rare motorcars

Looking at the various available literature, FLM Panelcraft produced the Estoura from the 1960's until the P6 was replaced in 1977

It is suggested that overall about 150 - 170 were produced in this period, some were 2000 or 2200 models although most were the 3500 model and the rarest of all were the 3500 S variant, which came with a manual 4 speed gearbox

I have been told that only about 8 versions of this were produced, although I cannot confirm this either way, although whether it's 8 or not, they are certainly the most usual version

This is a very late example having been build by Rover in June 1974 (Heritage Certificate confirms this) and completed as an Estoura within 6 months for her first registration was in December the same year

The first owner was a Lady, Mrs Daws who kept her for 4 and a half years at which point the long term owner purchased her (April 1979) a Mr Ellis

He kept her until 2018! The most recent owner took over in June 2019, at which point he decided to restore her

He is very meticulous (he's a Doctor.......) so the quality of the restoration is in a similar mould

Mint paintwork, refurbished wheels, carpets, headlining, a completely rebuilt engine with P38 heads, rebuilt gearbox (5 speed of course from an MG RV8), rebuilt heating system, rebuilt wiper motor, rebuilt carburettors and the list goes on

Not much short of £ 32.000 was expended and the result is astonishing

Driving her in London's dense traffic at night time everything works correctly, warm air to your feet, fascia display illuminated beautifully, instruments all operate nicely and the engine (only 600 miles since completion) is a complete delight

A sonorous note from the engine is delicious and the exhaust note (stainless steel by the way) is not too deep but you certainly know that there is some serious torque from the 3.5 litre lump at the end of it (apparently 204 ft/lbs at 2750rpm)

I wouldn't say that we are specialists in Estoura's but this is now our second 3500 S version and we are getting rather attached to them

The load space isn't enormous, but it is still very practical with the rear seats folded down she is perfect for taking the equipment required for Polo, shooting, golfing or even fishing - and she can cruise all day at over 100 mph with ease

All for the price of a new hatchback - I know what I'd prefer to run