Identifying the V8

A

alfamaniacs

New Member
Hello, I am looking at buying a 1971 P6 V8 Auto. It is a south african model. I would like to know if there is a way to identify the "High Compression" models easily. This car is badged "3500" no "S". It is an auto with the "Egg-Crate" grill and the later model instrumentation with round speedo and revcounter. If I am not mistaken, all the South African P6 V8's were auto and the more powerful engine was introduced around this time. I also seem to remember that it was badged as the 3500S. Any help would be appreciated.
 
That's a really difficult question. Very little has been published about the South African built P6's. There's a bit on the Austin-Rover site http://www.aronline.co.uk/, look under Facts and Figures, Around the World. I don't get the impression it was badged as an S?

Chris
 
Hi,
Not sure if this will help, but do you have access to the car? I would think by 1971 the Engine No. would be stamped on the block deck adjacent to the dipstick tube, rather than at the bellhousing flange. Also the compression ration should be there.

This page of Engine Numbers may be of help.

That's always assuming of course that the engine is still in its original configuration - a lot can change in 38 years! :)

Good Luck!
 
The original 3500S was an automatic produced for export, particularly USA, that had the whistles and bells such as aircon, electric windows, dual circuit brakes, etc.

No doubt someone who knows the relevant dates of production will post them up here.
 
There is normally a stamp showing the CR somewhere. either at the back of the block or next to the dip stick along with the engine number.

Colin
 
vaultsman said:
I would think by 1971 the Engine No. would be stamped on the block deck adjacent to the dipstick tube, rather than at the bellhousing flange.
Click to expand...

Unless it's had an engine change, the number will still be at the rear in 1971. All series one are there, and all series 2 at least up until the 3500S had been about a while were there too. My 3500S (1972 but registered on an "L") still has the original engine with the number at the back.
 
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