Zero Rust: 1967 Rover 2000 TC

If you’re attracted to the idea of owning a 1960s British classic, but don’t want a sports car, this 1967 Rover 2000 TC could be a worthy candidate. It presents nicely, offering room for a family of four. The seller recently invested a considerable sum beneath the skin, ensuring that this classic is in excellent mechanical condition. Adding to its appeal, this gem is as solid as the day it let the line. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Rover listed here on Craigslist in Portland, Oregon. The seller set their price at $10,500, but will consider offers.

Rover’s P6 model range, released in 1963, proved to be quite a versatile platform. Buyers could order these classics with a four under the hood, but the optional V8 gave the car remarkable performance credentials. This 1967 example is the 2000 TC, which fell in the middle of that year’s model range. It makes a positive first impression, courtesy of its striking Venetian Red and Black paint combination. The seller admits that the Black paint isn’t original and was applied because the clear coat on the roof was peeling. It isn’t a deal-breaker, because the combination doesn’t look odd. Of course, those preferring originality could strip away the Black and apply the correct shade to recapture the car’s factory form. However, the best news hides beneath the surface. Rust could be a problem, but this Rover is as solid as the day it left the line. It has never been beset with corrosion, and there is no evidence of developing problems. The trim and glass look respectable for a driver of this vintage, and the wheels are excellent.

Rover adopted a “clean sheet” approach with its P6 range, developing a motor specifically for its new model. This car is a 2000 TC, featuring a 1,978cc OHC four-cylinder motor breathing through a pair of SU carburetors. It sends a factory-claimed 110hp and 119 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Rover also equipped the car with four-wheel power disc brakes, with the rears mounted inboard for improved efficiency. The final piece of the puzzle was the De Dion suspension, blessing the 2000 TC with excellent handling and stopping power. The seller has been this car’s custodian for a couple of years, investing a considerable sum to ensure it is mechanically sound. They replaced the rear springs and four shocks and rebuilt the De Dion system. They replaced the transmission and driveshaft mounts and rebuilt the starter and the generator. The results justified the cost, because potential buyers can hand over their cash and head towards the horizon in this turnkey classic.

Rover made life aboard the 2000 TC feel pretty luxurious. It may not feature air conditioning or power windows, but bucket seats, a stick shift, a subtle console, timber caps on the door trims, and a timber wheel would have felt pretty special at the time. This car’s interior presents nicely for an unrestored vehicle. The driver’s seatcover is slightly stretched, but there is no evidence of rips or tears. The most obvious fault is the faded carpet, but with replacement sets retailing for under $300, addressing that shortcoming won’t break the bank. The dash houses an aftermarket tachometer, while an AM/FM radio will relieve boredom on long journeys.

Classics come in all shapes and sizes, with some enjoying a wider appeal than others. I have always been a fan of the Rover P6 range, meaning that I quite like this 1967 2000 TC. It might not be a fire-breathing beast, but it is ideal for enthusiasts with a family seeking a relaxed classic motoring experience. Many of these cars have succumbed to rust and old age, but this gem is as spritely and solid as the day its original owner proudly drove it off the showroom floor. As I said, it won’t appeal to everyone, but do you find yourself irresistibly drawn to this Rover? I will understand if you are.