Lot details
Registration No: 218 NPU
Chassis No: 605900600
Mot Expiry: Oct 2013

Unveiled to great enthusiasm at the 1949 Earls Court Motor Show, the Rover P4 was another brainchild of Spencer and Maurice Wilks. Stylistically influenced by the Raymond Loewy-penned Studebaker Champion, its sleek lines clothed a highly competent chassis equipped with independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension and a Panhard rod located leaf-sprung rear axle. Entering production the following year, the first P4 model - the 75 - was powered by a 2103cc (later 2230cc) straight-six engine that developed 75bhp and 111lbft of torque. Fitted with a four-speed column-mounted gearchange, the provision of a 'freewheel' mechanism boosted fuel economy. While the body's high aluminium content contributed towards a creditable 82mph top speed. Priced at £1,106, it was dubbed the 'poor man's Rolls-Royce' by the contemporary motoring press. Progressively restyled and refined in line with its siblings, the 75 remained in production until 1959 by which time some 43,677 had been made.

Dating from the last year of 75 production, this particular example was first road registered as '218 NPU' by Essex County Council (or so its 'PU' suffix would imply). Seemingly retaining much of its original Black paintwork which has been polished down to the undercoat in places, the Rover also boasts its original Red leather upholstery (though, the carpets have been renewed at some stage). A well-stocked badge bar suggests that the saloon formerly belonged to a member of the P4 60-110 Drivers' Guild and Rover Owners' Association. Sporting such period extras as a Kingsway Radiator Grille Cover and Smiths Rear Window Heater, '218 NPU' has been off the road since 2004. Treated to a degree of recommissioning over the last few months including a repaired exhaust, refurbished petrol pump, oil / filter change, replacement plugs / points and brake system overhaul (new master cylinder, wheel cylinders and front drum linings), the 75 has further benefited from rechromed door handles. Offered for sale with dash-mounted tool tray and MOT certificate valid until October 2013.