1938 Rover Speed 20 Sports Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: GL 6506
Chassis No: 971036
Mot Expiry: Aug 2006

Flagship of the pre-WW2 Rover range, the second series Speed 20 was introduced in 1937. Equipped with a longer wheelbase / wider tracked chassis than its 1933 RAC Rally winning predecessor, its handsome 'low line' saloon coachwork was created in-house. Engineered under the guidance of the legendary Wilks' brothers, it was powered by a triple SU carburettor fed 2½ litre ohv straight-six engine mated to a four-speed 'freewheel' manual gearbox. Reputedly capable of over 80mph, it came with hydraulic shock absorbers and a Luvax-Bijur lubrication system as standard. Although, built to Rover's usual high standards, its somewhat exclusive price tag ensured that just 641 were made prior to September 1939.
Finished in maroon with matching leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in good condition with regard to its chassis, engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork and wheels / tyres. First registered on 14th December 1938 (or so the accompanying 1956-issued RF60 logbook would imply), this 1939 model year Speed 20 is said to benefit from "first class paint and chrome". Thought to retain its original interior trim with the exception of a "new headlining and carpets", it rides on silver-painted wire wheels. Undeniably rare, it is offered for sale with a workshop manual, parts book, V5 registration document, MOT certificate current until August 2006 and historic class (free) road tax until August 2006.