∙Multiple show awards
∙Fresh restoration
∙Historic vehicle
∙MOT & Tax exempt 

The final iteration of the P5 appeared in September 1967. Now powered by the 3,528-cubic-centimetre (215.3 cu in) Rover V8 engine also used in the 3500, the car was badged as the "3.5 Litre", and commonly known as the 3½ Litre. The final letter in the "P5B" model name came from Buick, the engine's originator. Rover did not have the budget to develop a new engine, hence they chose to redevelop the lightweight aluminium Buick engine, making it considerably stronger. While this added some weight, it still maintained the engine's light and compact features. The Borg Warner Type-35 automatic transmission, hydrosteer variable ratio power steering and front Lucas fog lights were now standard equipment.

The Buick-designed V8 produced 158 hp at 5,200 rpm and 210 lb/ft of torque at 2,600 rpm. The greater power of the engine, along with its lower weight, provided improved performance as well as fuel economy. 

The exterior was mostly unchanged, apart from bold "3.5 Litre" badging, a pair of fog lights which were added below the headlights, creating a striking four-light array, and the fitting of chrome Rostyle wheels with black painted inserts.

It was also a favourite of high-ranking government ministers, and served as Prime Ministerial transport for Harold Wilson, Edward Heath, James Callaghan, and Margaret Thatcher. As testament to their suitability, the last batch of P5Bs to roll off the Rover line in June 1973 was purchased by the British government and placed in storage, to be released for government use as required. For that reason, registered relatively new-looking P5s were therefore still familiar sights in Westminster for more than a decade after production had ended.

This vehicle has had 5 owners in total. One of the previous owners had the car for a very long time and showed it, and the car has with it two rosettes, one from 2011 and one from 2013. 

Due to that owners advancing age and ill health the car got laid up for around 6-8 years, it was then bought by the current owner and restored. The restoration was comprehensive and included new carpets in the original colour as the originals were extremely worn, and the car also had a full respray in its original lovely dark green, new rear leaf springs, full service and a general overhaul of everything else.

V5 present. This car includes some history, and a number of original service manuals, rover optional equipment sheets, a Haynes manual, classic RAC guides, entry tickets and the show rosettes etc. The car also includes the original tool kit, along with some spare parts.

As mentioned, the car has had a full restoration which included new carpets in the original colour. Much of the rest of the original interior was maintained, which although it has some marks of age gives the car fantastic character and originality, and is still exceptionally well kept. The large black thin-rimmed steering wheel and chrome horn push ring is a delight, and the Black dashboard contrasts wonderfully against the wood trims and light brown upholstery. A real time warp, getting into this vehicle will transport you back to 1972 with comfort and style and a true pride of workmanship that went into these cars.

As previously stated, the car has been restored recently and has had a full respray. The paint job is new and good but not perfect, some blemishes here and there, however the colour is original. The car has its original chrome Rostyle wheels with black painted inserts, these are original and have been polished but still have some age marks and the black inserts on the front left have lost some paint. Four new tyres and are all in excellent condition. It is a bold car to look at, and the chrome work against the dark green paint is very striking. the four light array looks fantastic and the large from grill and bumper is sporting a set of classic badges. The lower roof line of the coupe really improves the style and it is a beautiful car to look at, please take the time to look at all the pictures!

Runs and drives lovely, no smoke on startup and engine runs butter smooth. As part of the restoration the bodywork was fitted with all new seals, and new rear leaf springs fitted. Everything else was retained original but restored to full working order. The car evidently has been undersealed to help maintain its longevity and is in excellent order mechanically. The engine bay is very well looked after and a joy to behold. The car has also received a full service as part of its restoration.

A stunning example of a show winning P5B Coupe, this car combines original parts with bucket loads of character with a tastefully done restoration, and wears its age proudly. It oozes character and class. The interior is a time capsule and the bold dark green exterior really makes this Rover a stunner. The 3.5 V8 really completes this wonderful package. Not to be missed a rare opportunity to own a fully restored, yet very original show winner!


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