1948 Rover Twelve Tourer, one of only 200 made by Rover and principally for export.

This car, chassis number 153, is one of approximately 100 survivors making it a rare motor car indeed and one of the most desirable Rover models. Unusually this car was not exported. It was instead supplied to Barretts of Canterbury in February 1948 and has remained in the south east of England ever since.

Originally painted in ‘Sundown’, the Rover is now finished in fawn over sable and presents well. The weather equipment, which includes side-screens and tonneau, is in black double duck and is in excellent condition. The hood completely disappears under the panel behind the rear seat making for a very neat and uncluttered appearance. The car was restored in 1988 and is still in excellent order. The interior was re-trimmed in heavy duty vinyl but it has been done to a high standard and the carpets are in good condition.

The car is an instant starter, settling down to a very quiet idle and showing correct oil pressure. On the road the performance is spritely – the Twelve has a reputation for being a good performer – the steering and ride are excellent and the Girling mechanical brakes reassuringly effective, making it a most useful touring car.

The synchromesh gearbox has a lovely, precise, mechanical feel and features a button to unlock reverse which is a nice feature. The famous Rover freewheel is of course fitted and all the (correct) instruments work.

The Rover is clearly a very high quality car and everything about it has that feel. There is a complete tool kit in a sliding drawer under the dashboard which is thoughtfully accessible.

The rear hinged doors offer excellent access making entry and exit very easy. The Rover us very roomy inside and four adults could go touring in comfort.

Under the bonnet everything is in good order and well presented. The Bijur Luvax automatic chassis lubrication system has been removed at some stage.

Recent work includes a steering box rebuild and carburetter overhaul.

The car comes with a large history file containing a Heritage Certificate, invoices, old MoTs and much interesting correspondence. There are a couple of rather well-thumbed Owner’s Handbooks. Some spare gaskets and a fan belt accompany the car.

12HP Tourers are rightly prized and seldom come onto the market so this is a rare opportunity to obtain a good example of one of the most desirable and collectable Rover models.

As always we are willing to take an interesting vehicle in part exchange.

A video of the car can be viewed on the St Andrews Autos YouTube channel.

For more information and to arrange a viewing call James or contact via our website.

Thank you for reading.