Lot details
Registration No: N/A
Chassis No: See Text
Mot Expiry: May 2012

In order to enhance the Rover SD1's image, British Leyland entered a pair of cars in the 1980 BTCC via David Price Racing. The results were encouraging and a deal was struck with Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) for the following season - a relationship that was to last through to 1986, ie the end of the SD1 era. The launch of the overtly sporting Vitesse variant in 1982 greatly helped the model both on and off the track. Titles in the 1983 BTCC and 1986 ETC ensued, though were subsequently stripped as a result of technical infringements. Andy Rouse's magnificent 1984 BTCC win was, however, way beyond contention. The model achieved many other racing victories at home and abroad and even in rallying - results that unquestionably boosted the flagging showroom sales.

The 1983 Vitesse offered was purchased by the vendor at the Bonhams sale at Gaydon in 2003. It was looking rather sorry for itself with broken windows and lights, and was finished in Bastos livery following a stint as an Austin Rover promotional car. It is widely thought to be either TWR 001 or TWR 002; plates for both of which are to be found on the chassis. After much research, the vendor has lent towards it being 001 (the ex-French Super Tourisme racer), having found traces of that car's distinctive Marlboro livery below the Bastos one. However, the whereabouts of the still more successful 002 car are currently unknown, so either identity is eminently possible - the research continues. In the last six months, the Rover has been recommissioned with a 4.5-litre circa 300bhp Rovertec engine; lowered Spax springs, adjustable struts and dampers; large front discs, four-pot calipers, dual master cylinder, bias adjuster; limited slip differential. The car will be fitted with Vitesse wheels by the time of sale and is MOT'd into May 2012.