1969 Rover P5B Saloon Registration Number: SRY 346G Chassis...

Estimate

£14,000 - £16,000

1969 Rover P5B Saloon

Registration Number: SRY 346G
Chassis Number: 840003454
Recorded Mileage: 33,200 miles

Launched in 1958, the new Rover ‘3-litre’ moved the brand on significantly in terms of technology, style and construction. The Coupé came along in 1962, with a rakishly lowered roofline while retaining all four doors. William Martin-Hurst, Rover's Managing Director, tools things one step further in 1965 by obtaining the tooling and production rights to the (now famous) 3.5 litre, 215cu V8 from Buick. The joining of Rover's stately P5 and the ex-Buick V8 was a match made in heaven. The new aluminium V8 was significantly lighter and considerably more powerful than its predecessor, delivering 160bhp and a massive leap in torque to 210lb.ft. at 2,600rpm, vastly improving pace, comfort, balance, handling, economy and reliability.

The new Rover P5B (B for Buick), aimed firmly at competition from Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, was equipped with independent torsion-bar front suspension, a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle and disc/drum brakes. Fitted with three-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering as standard, it proved a relaxing drive, although capable of a comfortable 115mph. The exterior was mostly unchanged, apart from bold '3.5-Litre' badging and a pair of fog lights added below the headlights, creating a striking four-light array, also chrome Rostyle wheels with black painted inserts. The svelte Coupé had slimmer chromed window surrounds, twin-armchair rear seats and additional dashboard instruments. Production lasted until 1973, by which time 11,501 Saloons and 9,099 Coupés had been built, however, survivors are thought to number in the hundreds.

This P5B, from early 1969, was acquired by our vendor from a deceased estate. Upon purchase, the car was due some remedial attention, and so work commenced. The coachwork was stripped and refinished in Bordeaux Red. The interior leather was refurbished and recoloured to original as required. The chromework is excellent, and the rubber seals have been replaced with new. The lovely V8 runs extremely smooth with plenty of power through a newly rebuilt gearbox.

A handsome, equally capable and comfortable classic, this true British classic will no doubt prove to be a great way to get around at any time of year.