Noted ex-racing driver-turned-motoring writer, Paul Frere, acting as President of the Car of the Year Committee said of the Rover SD1,

"The Rover 3500 is the first British car for years with a worldwide appeal. It is lavishly equipped, very economical for its size and performance and offers a good blend of handling and comfort. However you look at Sterling it represents very good value both on the home and export markets."

Rover SD1 Design Team:
From left to right Mike Lewis (Chief Engineer), David Bache (Head of Styling),
Spen King (Director of Engineering), Gordon Bashford (SD1 Design)