ROVER P6 (1963-1977)
For a company that had been lumbered with a somewhat stuffy image thanks to solid and conservative saloons like the ‘Auntie’ P4 range, Rover took a huge leap into the unknown with the announcement of the P6 in October 1963. Together with the new Triumph 2000, it was a pioneer for a new breed of compact executive saloons that would combine the aspirational lure of the larger 3-litre class of saloons with the affordable running costs of a mid-size one, adding the latest styling and engineering trends to make up a dynamic and forward-looking package.
The P6 was more advanced than its Triumph rival. Pretty early into the project, use of a gas turbine power unit and hydropneumatic suspension were ruled out, but a somewhat unusual ‘chassis’ concept (similar to that of the Citroën DS) remained. The body used an advanced and safety conscious inner monocoque onto which panels were bolted. Allied to clever
