1969 | Rover 2000 TC

The Lord of the Lanes – 1969 Rover 2000 TC

The Rover P6 series was a completely new development in 1963. At the time, Rover was considered a technology-oriented brand and wanted to uphold this claim with the P6. With the P6, marketed as the “2000”, the company was aiming at a new intellectual middle class that emerged in the 1960s: senior executives and the self-employed for whom a Jaguar seemed too conservative.

Its distinct front end was ahead of its time: a wide grille extending across the entire front, plus four equally large round headlights. The same style can be found on the 1966 Fiat Dino Spider or the 1968 Aston Martin DBS. Characteristic of the time, however, are the tapered rear lights and distinctive sleek lines. In the 1960s, many sedans were given a clear, simple design language – a departure from the rounded bodies of the 1950s. The designers borrowed the new objectivity in automotive engineering from the smooth, rectangular buildings of modern architecture, where the principle of “less is more” frequently applies.

The 2000 was also structurally ambitious. A de Dion rear axle and a highly unusual front axle with horizontal shock absorbers are evidence of this. The placement of this front axle is intended to make room for a gas turbine engine, which however never went into series production. An extremely short steering column that bends upwards in the event of an impact was designed to ensure safety. Seat belts were available on request. In 1964, the Rover 2000 became the very first Car of the Year.

The engine was designed in the form of a square to cope well with high continuous rpm and the speeds on the newly built motorways at the time. As a result, the Rover 2000 TC is a fast and comfortable long-distance vehicle for up to five passengers.

Our auction vehicle is a real rarity with only one owner. The car was first registered in Switzerland on 1st March 1969 and has been family-owned ever since, passing down from father to son. Extraordinarily well maintained, everything in its original condition with a veteran registration. Receipts of investment are available, with very extensive documentation.