Inside, the V8 feels like something from the 1940s, with plenty of wood and leather and antique-style cream dials. But although the 75’s dash is starting to show its age in the style and quality of the switchgear, the layout remains thoroughly logical and the BMW-era bits (such as the optional satellite navigation) are still effective. The 75 has always felt cosy inside, and by contemporary standards the V8’s cabin is cramped, especially for rear seat passengers. Nevertheless, all drivers will be comfortable and it’s a charming place to sit.
This Connoisseur SE model is £31,995 (the Contemporary SE trim adds more sportiness for £32,395) and our test car came with the Navigation pack, which includes sat-nav, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming mirror. It’s hard to talk about the costs of the Rover V8 without making excuses for it, and anyone seriously considering purchasing one will probably be buying it for more emotive reasons anyway. At this price it is up against the new Mercedes E350 Elegance (£34,985) and BMW 530i (£31,725). Both are considerably more sophisticated than the Rover, and both retain a lot more of their value, the V8 retaining an estimated 34 per cent after three years compared with the Mercedes’ 65 per cent. A Jaguar S-type 3.0 V6 (£32,270) is closer to the Rover for cost and depreciation, and has a better image.
Then there are running costs. The V8 emits 319g/km of CO2 compared to the German cars’ 231g/km (and the Jag’s 259g/km), making for higher company car tax. The Rover is also extremely thirsty: we managed a lowly average of 14.5mpg and could only get 19.6mpg as a touring figure. Business users will surely look elsewhere.