ROVER SD1 2000

The "facelift" in 1982 brought the diesel model 2400 SD and a four-cylinder model onto the market. Already at times of the series P6 there was a model with the same name: ROVER 2000.
The equipment of the SD1 2000 is not lean at all, but many details - even for an extra charge - are not available. This is the usual model policy: you want to encourage the customer to buy the larger model.

The Rover 2000 was added to the series as an entry-level model. It competed with numerous 2-litre models from other manufacturers such as Ford, Citroen, Renault and Mercedes Benz, which were already serving the growing market for these vehicles. The 2000s were powered by an 'O' series engine with a 1994 cc displacement and overhead camshaft. The engine was equipped with two SU carburettors and delivered 101 hp at 3250 rpm. Since it was a bit weak for a vehicle of this size and weight, the rear axle was geared at 3.9 : 1, making it possible to use the 5-speed gearbox. An automatic 3-speed transmission type 66 from Borg Warner could be ordered for an extra charge.

The model lacked the power steering, the sunroof cost extra. Since the weight of the car in front was much lower than with the V8, softer springs and different dampers were used in front. At the rear, standard coil springs with variable identification and normal dampers - instead of the self-levelling units of the V8 - were used.

The outer appearance of the car corresponded to its status: it was the poor cousin of the series. The wheels were fitted with simple plastic covers, instead of velour upholstery there was only a simple fabric cover on the seats and the trunk was only fitted with rubber mats. Otherwise there was an automatic choke, a plain carpet, a digital clock, a radio with two loudspeakers, halogen headlights and a rear windscreen wiper.

The update in 1984 brought some improvements, some of the previous options now became standard equipment. The door panels got wooden inlays, the seats now corresponded to those of the other models and the wheel covers now corresponded to those of the 2600 S. However, the engine did not change.

A total of around 20,500 vehicles of this type were sold between 1982 and 1986.

After the SD1 series had been discontinued, the model was further built in India as ⇒ Standard 2000. From this production also many spare parts originate, as they are offered e.g. with Rimmer Bros..