1960 Rover P4 – Project Profile
November 17, 2022
In the words of Sean Bean, “winter is coming”. Apparently. It’s still 17c here, but we digress. The point is, the clocks have changed, it’s getting darker earlier and having just enjoyed the NEC Classic Motor Show, it’s now time for show season in general to go into hibernation. But what should we do during these cold, short days? Stay in? Watch Pointless? Decorate? No, none of those. Instead, let’s buy another car. A nice, easy winter project, one that can be ready to hit salt-free streets in Spring. Something like, say, this 1960 Rover P4. Running, driving and in overall pretty good condition, this could be the perfect garage companion for the winter months.
What is it?
The Rover P4 was a big deal for the British company. With modern ‘pontoon’ styling, improved build quality over that of the previous P3, handsome lines and acres of luxuriously-trimmed space, it was the epitome of British class. The ride of choice for bank managers, surgeons and lawyers, it was one of those ‘you’ve made it’ kind of cars. Let us not forget that Grace Kelly and even King Hussain of Jordan had one!
As with any British model, the P4 went through a number of changes over its life, of which this 1960 Rover P4 represents the latter part of. It was, after all, introduced as a model in 1949. By 1960, the P5 was out, and the P4 was being positioned for retirement. However, buyers still loved them, hence the overlap. The ’80’ model we have here was introduced during October of 1959. It was powered by a Land Rover-derived 2.3-litre straight-four, which was unique to this version of P4. Never hugely popular, it was at least reliable. And today, it’s easy to find parts for.
Why is it a project?
This 1960 Rover P4 was bought by the current owner to be restored and put into a small museum. However, plans have changed and now it is available for sale once more. While it is in need of restoration, it is a running and driving car, and could very easily be a rolling restoration. There is some wear and tear to the body commensurate with its age, and there is some slight corrosion coming through on the underside. However, the P4 was of body on chassis construction, so as long as the chassis itself is solid – and it seems to be – that’s half the battle. That’s the car’s strength. The interior is all present and correct, if a little worn and tired in places, and it looks deeply inviting thanks to its unapologetically red hue. As for the mechanical side of things, we understand the car runs well and does indeed drive. On the whole, for a mere £4,000, it is a very attractive prospect indeed.
What should you look for?
Normally we would go through ‘five things’ to look for. However, this car is listed on our ‘make an offer’ platform, meaning one of our team has been to see and photograph the car. This means there is a highly detailed listing, as well as hundreds of pictures for you to pore over. Be sure to look at the listing for this 1960 Rover P4 here.
What should you do with it?
We like that this handsome old 1960 Rover P4 has some age to it. The body shows it’s been used, and there are no massive holes, nothing is falling off it, nothing is causing a hazard. The interior needs a tickle, especially the rear seats, but sort that and it’ll be very regal indeed. We’d go over it mechanically, maybe fit some modern cooling solutions like an electric fan, maybe electronic ignition, too. Full service and fluids, overhaul the brakes, new tyres (how cool would thin whites look on this?) and then enjoy. It could be a regularly used classic. Still handsome enough to cut a dash, but not so minty mint that you’re scared to use it. And isn’t using them what it’s all about?
