1976

Rover SD1 1976-1986

When it was launched in June 1976, the Rover SD1, was a very bold step forward by Rover standards. Gone was the Auntie Rover image and in its place was a new low drag sporty hatchback.

Inspired by the Ferrari Daytona, designed by Director of styling David Bache, the 3500, with its 155 BHP V8 engine, showed great promise. Initially very successful, but after a while things started to go wrong, such as paint problems, water leaks, rust, and poor reliability.

1976 Pontiac

The 343 was designed by DAF before the take-over by Volvo, although DAF never manufactured it themselves.