Rover SD1 Vitesse 

• 2021 
• VA09014 
• Vanguards 
• Rover 

8577131

Model cars

Rover SD1 Vitesse

VA09014

2021

1000

1982

100 mm

White Diamond The David Bache-designed Rover SD 1 was inspired, visually, by the Ferrari Daytona and when relaesed in 1976 marked a whole new era for Rover. The more sporting Vitesse model was created in 1982, partly to homologate the car for international and domestic saloon car racing, but its quixotic mix of avant-garde looks, sports suspension, aerodynamic aids and V8 muscle also made it a great image booster for the whole Rover range. It was over 1.000 pound more expensive than the previous top of the range SD 1, the Vanden Plas, but it offered hugely improved performance, as well as a much more focused driving experience. The Vitesse proved very effective on track and a batch of five hundreds were made in 1985/86 to homologate modifications for the following seasons. These cars featured a twin plenum intake system, developed by Lotus, that offered a potential power increase on track although the official published power figure for the road car remained unchanged. The car modelled is one of that small batch and is believed to the only white TP extant. Research undertaken by SD 1 Club historian Chris Powell indicates that three examples may have been made but that the other two no longer exist. It was first registered on September 22nd, 1986, having been ordered by Rover dealer Sparshatts of Botley, Hampshire, and is now owned by long standing Hampshire-based SD 1 enthusiast Paul Wright, who is planning its restoration. Numberplate: D966 OTP