The 1969 Rover 2000TC, like the one recently listed on eBay, offers an alternative to BMW, Jag, and Mercedes-Benz.
If asked to name a British luxury carmaker, most Americans would mention Bentley - opens in new window or tab. or Rolls-Royce - opens in new window or tab.. Of course, Jaguar - opens in new window or tab. is also usually in the mix. But if you’re thinking SUVs, Range Rover is an obvious choice.
However, not too long ago, Range Rover was part of the larger Rover company that built a wide range of sedans alongside their well-known trucks. The 1969 Rover 2000TC offers a sophisticated independent suspension delivering both lively handling and a compliant ride, and an interior lined in rich leather and real wood.
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The Rover 2000 Was Cutting Edge
The Rover 2000, also known as a P6, was introduced in 1963. Upon its arrival, it was heralded as a modern and sophisticated sedan. With unibody construction, four-wheel-disc brakes, a fully synchronized four-speed transmission, and a de Dion suspension - opens in new window or tab. at the rear to improve handling over the traditional live rear axle, the 2000 was as high-tech as sedans got in the 1960s.
Range Rover is a premium SUV today, but Rover sedans never caught on with American buyers. Rust and mechanical issues made matters worse, so one as nice as this TC is a rare sight. This obscure Rover presents an opportunity to own a car you don’t see every day, and it is available at an attractive price.
This one is a California car that has avoided the corrosion that plagued so many of its contemporaries. With its original equipment and trim in place, it is an excellent candidate for a collector willing to do some mechanical wrenching.
The seller explains that the Rover needs some mechanical work and that he believes the camshaft needs replacing. That said, Rover 2000s like this TC are relatively easy to work on, thanks to a simple design, front engine, and rear drive layout. Unlike a modern vehicle, the Rover’s engine is free of computerized systems and electronics that can be daunting for a weekend mechanic. Better still, any aspiring restorer will find that parts are easy to find on eBay.
A Sports Sedan With All-Day Comfort
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides the power. Its overhead cam and two SU carburetors - opens in new window or tab. give it the “TC” designation. Introduced in 1966, Rover 2000 TC models also got a revised manifold and top end, resulting in a substantial power increase to 124 horsepower—considerably more than earlier versions of the 2000 with its single carb.
The Rover 2000 was designed for long, efficient, and reliable rides at highway speeds over highways that were developed in Europe and the United States in the postwar era.
A previous owner did some heavy lifting on this TC, including brake repairs and rebuilding the two SU carburetors. While more mechanical work remains to be done, this beautiful Rover 2000’s interior bits and bodywork are largely intact. So all that remains is for a new owner to roll up their sleeves and get started. And with an affordable Buy-It-Now price of just $3,500, you’ll hopefully have the budget left to fill in the gaps.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.