Rover EFi vanden Plas

Mid 1984 a new high performance Rover model was introduced ot the market. At a price of £ 15,775.- it was the top model of the SD1. The Rover vanden Plas EFi. Basically a more luxurious version of the Rover Vitesse, using the same engine, suspension and brakes but with the Vanden Plas specification bodyshell. The Vitesse and so the EFi used the Lucas fuel injection system that was fitted the Australian markets for emission control reasons. But in the Vitesse/EFI form it was more powerfull, a new designed airflow meter and electronic control unit, different distributor and advance retard characteristics were required to adapt the "L" system from the low compression 150 Bhp Australian specs to the high compression Vitesse engine. And best of all to some the EFi was supplied with an automatic transmission.

Customers wanted a more luxurious V8 version of the Vitesse. Rover claimed that the new model did 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds with a top of 130 mph. It was the Vitesse without the rearspoiler, but with the Vitesse alloy wheels with Pirelli P6 low profile tyres. Only a badge on the rear helped to differentiate this model from the others.

The EFi was only available with the automatic, GM 180 gearbox. It came with leather seats, box velvet ones could be ordered at no extra costs. The large Vitesse front soiler was replaced by the standard one, and the rear spoiler was removed. The car was so well equipped that the only option left at extra cost was air-conditioning. Metallic or black paint were no cost options. And the EFI was aimed at the more conservative businessman or managing director.

It was no surprise that the EFI was only ever intented to sell in low volumes. Rover exported this car only to a few overseas countries like Germany, and jus 1113 models were produced which means this model is one of the rarest or the SD1 cars.

Build from 1984 with 422 cars, till 1985 with 691 cars this probably is the ultimate Rover SD1!