Rover SD1 1976–1986 car dimensions: 4698 mm long, 1768 mm wide and 1372 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,363 kg. Braked towing is 1,400 kg.
The cabin feels roomy for five with decent rear space and headroom. Higher trims bring air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows, central locking, leather or velour seats, sunroof and trip computer. Self-levelling rear suspension appears on many versions. No electronic driver aids feature.
The hatchback boot holds 490 litres seats up and opens to 960 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Load space is practical and easy to access for an executive fastback.
Braked towing reaches 1400 kg on some models. Self-levelling rear suspension helps when loaded. Police forces favoured the V8 versions for performance and carrying ability. Vitesse models get uprated suspension.
The cabin feels executive with a broad, clearly laid-out dashboard and driver-oriented seating position. Plush velour or leather seats on higher grades include lumbar control and an adjustable steering column. It offers good space for five and a large hatch boot. Self-levelling rear suspension aids a comfortable ride for long distances, though early build quality varies and taller drivers may find legroom tight.
V8 models return around 20 mpg. six-cylinder versions offer better economy.
Regular oil changes essential, ideally every 3000 miles for six-cylinder engines.
Stiff unitary body structure with laminated windscreen.
Front disc brakes standard. full discs on later V8 models.
Inertia-reel seatbelts standard front, rear on higher grades.
Fuel use varies by engine. The V8 is thirsty at around 20 mpg in normal driving. Six-cylinder models provide a useful economy edge for company use. The later turbodiesel improves on this further for longer range.
Servicing is straightforward thanks to a roomy engine bay. The V8 thrives on frequent oil and coolant changes to avoid cam wear and overheating. Six-cylinder engines need oil changes at short intervals to prevent camshaft oil feed blockages. Parts support remains strong for V8s via specialists.
Safety centres on a stiff monocoque body and Triplex laminated windscreen. Front discs with rear drums are standard on most, upgrading to four-wheel discs on V8 and Vitesse cars. Seatbelts are inertia-reel type, with rear ones fitted as standard later. Self-levelling suspension helps stability under load. No advanced electronics feature.
Keeping an SD1 means watching for rust in arches, sills, floors and sunroof surrounds if fitted. Early cars suffer poorer trim durability and electrics. Later Series 2 models improve build. Specialist clubs and parts make long-term ownership practical if bodywork is sound.
Length 4698 mm, Width 1768 mm, Height 1372 mm, Wheelbase 2815 mm (SD1 1976–1986)
Sources: manufacturer data, classicandsportscar.com factfile, en.wikipedia.org, ultimatespecs.com/encycarpedia.com.