1962 Rover P4 100

Description

Much recent expenditure including complete brake overhaul, new stainless steel exhaust, new headlining and new carpets; runs sweetly; driven 60 miles to the sale; scope for cosmetic TLC

Considered by many to be the ultimate development of the P4, the Rover 100 was produced from 1960 until 1962. A replacement for the Rover 90 and 105, it incorporated a number of changes inspired by the introduction of the new Rover P5 3-Litre, the engine being a seven-bearing, short-stroke version of the 3-litre. Displacing 2,625cc, the uncannily smooth straight-six developed 104bhp and in conjunction with the four-speed overdrive manual gearbox gave a 95mph top speed.

To better cope with this extra performance, servo-assisted front disc brakes were adopted along with wider wheels. With its separate chassis, generous rubber body mounts and plentiful soundproofing, the 100 was incredibly quiet and refined compared to its peers and some 16,000 were sold before production ceased in 1962.

First registered in Pembrokeshire in June 1962, this Rover 100 has had six owners to date, according to the V5C and has been in the current ownership since 2022. Five old MOTs and a check of the MOT history online shows that it has been in light regular use, clocking up some 12,800 miles since 2006, the odometer currently showing (1)08,079 miles.

A good few invoices show regular upkeep over the last 20 years, including a bill for what looks like an engine overhaul in 2007 at 95,510 miles (bores honed; big end set; piston ring set etc). According to notes on file it has recently had a complete brake system overhaul with a new master cylinder, stainless steel caliper pistons, brake pipes, pads and linings. A new stainless steel exhaust was also fitted and the interior tidied up with a new headlining, new carpets and new door cards.

As you can see in the photos, the red leather seats could do with some repairs here and there and there is the odd scuff and blister on the bodywork. A repro copy of a Rover P4 instruction manual is also present, along with two sets of keys.

Driven some 60 miles to the sale with no problems reported, it has been starting promptly and running very sweetly indeed as we have moved it around on site. On offer here at a very modest guide price, this classic Rover saloon can be enjoyed as it is and improved over time as desired.

Everyone should own a P4 at least once in their lives – they are hugely underrated and the ride quality and refinement still put many modern cars to shame…

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com