Lot details

Year: 1959
Make: Rover
Model: P5 Saloon (3.0 Litre)
Registration: 2459 NX
Chassis No: 630000138
Engine No: 630066259

The P5 appeared in September 1958 badged as the '3-Litre'. It was powered by a 2,995cc engine, a straight-six that used an overhead intake valve plus side exhaust valve; an unusual arrangement inherited from the Rover P4. Automatic transmission, overdrive (if you chose to opt for the manual) and power steering were optional, with overdrive becoming standard from May 1960. Stopping power came originally from a Girling brake system that employed 11-inch drums all round, but this was a heavy car, so by the time of the London Motor Show in October 1959, Girling front-wheel power discs brakes had appeared. The Mk. II version of the P5 was introduced in 1962. It featured more power from the same three litre engine and an improved suspension whilst also dropping the glass wind deflectors from the top of the window openings. The most notable addition to the range was the option of the coupe body style, launched in Autumn 1962. Unlike most coupes, which tend to be two-door versions of four-door saloons, this retained all four doors and the same width and length as the saloon, but featured a roofline lowered by 21/2", along with thinner b-pillars, giving it the look of a hardtop. Production of the Mk. II ended in 1965, by which time 5,482 coupes and 15,676 saloons had been made.

Manufactured on 19th October 1959 and dispatched from the factory on 27th October to Midland Autocar Ltd. Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, this Rover presents in very good order throughout. The fastidious and knowledgeable classic car collecting vendor has enjoyed this car immensely. The black coachwork is in good order as is the red interior. The engine started immediately when requested and sounded beautiful, with no adverse noises. This is mated to an automatic gearbox which we are advised operates as it should. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a British Motoring Industry Heritage Trust certificate. Used by government ministers and royalty on a regular basis, these quintessentially British Rovers are supremely comfortable to drive with a simple and uncluttered instrument layout, where virtually everything is at your fingertips. Consigned by Stewart Banks