Highlights

Only 42,166 miles from new
Current keeper since 1998
Older restoration wth further mechanical work
Fascinating history dating back to first registration
Continuous servicing to 41,617 miles

The Appeal

Certain classic cars are as much about the stories they tell as the intrinsic qualities they possess. This regal P5B is a case in point.

The car was bought by sugar supremos Tate & Lyle in 1972 - hence, no doubt, the sugary white paintwork - and used to chauffeur the directors around. When the chauffeur, Mr North, retired in August 1973 as was traditional he was given the Rover. When the fuel crisis hit in ‘76 he put it into storage, only bringing it out in 1987 for a 12 month restoration.

The current keeper bought it in 1998 and, as he puts it, the car has led a ‘charmed life.’ He has added only 14,000 miles to bring the total mileage to a very sparing 42,000. During his tenure the car has been regularly serviced and maintained including a transmission rebuild, brake work, radiator refurbishment and fitting a stainless steel exhaust.

The history file is suitably detailed - even the original service book has been kept up to date - and reflects the enthusiasm of its six keepers from new. The car is very solid and presentable, with some scope for the buyer to add value. P5Bs are currently riding the crest of a classic wave and good, low mileage examples like this one stand out.

History and Paperwork

First registered 9th February 1972
Originally owned by Tate & Lyle and used by the directors as a chauffeur-driven car
Gifted to the firm’s chauffeur Mr North in August 1973
Placed into storage from 1976 to 1987 when had covered 19,000 miles
Restored between 1987 and 1988
Five registered keepers
Current keeper since 1998
Driven under 14,000 miles since
Used as a wedding car for the current keeper’s three children
Always kept in a garage by the current owner
Originally featured registration number HGC 733K
Professionally restored in 1987/88 and re-registered as EK0 299K
Original workshop manuals and headrests included
Extensive history file as shown in photographs
Original registration document
Service book stamped to 41,617 miles in July 2019
Old MOTs included to verify mileage
Rear wings removed, resprayed and refitted during current keeper’s ownership
Historic Vehicle that is MOT, tax and ULEZ exempt
Last MOT expired 28th September 2021 with no advisories
41,792 miles showing on last test and 42,166 miles

The Condition

Factory correct white paintwork in generally good order following older restoration
Paintwork shows some signs of age in photographs
Bodywork is presentable but shows some areas to note in photographs
Back wings removed, resprayed, and refitted
Vendor notes that some improvement are needed to the underside
Black leather interior in patinated but usable condition
Front seat seams need stitching according to the seller
Veneers to doors, dashboard and rear area well kept with light ageing
Fitted with period radio
Factory Rostyle wheels with chrome elements in fair condition

The Mechanics

3,528cc Rover V8 engine with SU carburettors
Automatic transmission with three gears
Hard brake pipes and servo renewed during seller’s ownership
Transmission rebuilt around ten years ago
Radiator has been recored
New front disc brakes fitted
Stainless steel exhaust
Described as delightful to drive with power-assisted steering
Last serviced at 41,617 miles
No reported running or driving issues

The vendor tells us:

“The Rover is a delight to drive with its automatic transmission and power assisted steering. The white colour with lots of chrome on the front means that this car turns heads and brings a smile to people's faces.”

BEFORE YOU BUY

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