Vendor supplied images

Highlights

Only two previous owners
Highly original while benefitting from several sensible upgrades for use in modern traffic
Original interior benefiting from light reconditioning
Starts readily from cold and runs well with no untoward noises or oil-burning
Proven to be very reliable during present ownership, easily keeping up with modern traffic

The Appeal

Penned by the great David Bache, the P5 was to be Rover’s first monocoque car and its final iteration, the P5B, introduced the legendary 3.5-litre Buick-derived V8 that Rover had recently acquired from GM. Beloved of royalty and dignitaries, the P5B was one of the most advanced luxury cars of its era and even today, they don’t feel like fifty-year-old cars from behind the wheel.

This 1971 P5B Coupé stands out for its originality and fantastic overall condition, looking fantastic in its Silver Birch over Admiralty blue colour scheme. With only two previous owners and years of careful storage have preserved its originality, notably including the interior which has aged beautifully. The exterior, too, has been well-maintained, with professional attention to common P5B trouble spots and a high-quality re-paint.

Reportedly driving very well indeed, keeping pace with modern traffic and free from any issues, this Rover is ready to enjoy.

With restoration costs now so high particularly on P5B's, the combination of condition, colour scheme, originality and low ownership make this relatively rare P5, one that should prove to be a wise purchase for its next owner

History and Paperwork

First registered on 22nd January 1971
Only two previous owners
Benefits from regular use and maintenance over the last three decades
Recent extensive service and inspection
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
91,363 miles indicated and while we’re unable to verify this figure, the vendor suggests its likely correct

The Condition

All common P5B trouble spots have been attended to within the last few years and professionally rectified where necessary including a replacement sill on the offside and nearside rebuilt
Excellent straight bodywork with a fine paint finish
The refinished paintwork is now weathering in nicely, resembling a nicely aged restoration
The roof looks to still be in its original paint which is a nice touch
The chromework and stainless trims in are in very good condition
a little pitting on the rear boot handle and rear light surrounds but certainly nothing scruffy
Interior in very good condition with original seats, carpets, wood, headlining and door cards
Switchgear and instrumentation clear, bright and free from excess wear or ageing
A small cut is visible only on the left-hand front door card
The vendor remarks that the interior “ retains the correct look and smell that a re-trimmed interior cannot match”
Some perishing on the rear window seal and a small area of 'spidering' in the paintwork above the nearside front light - but these are barely noticeable and do not detract from the car’s handsome appearance

The Mechanics

The 3.5-litre Rover V8 engine reportedly starts readily from cold with no issues
We’re assured that the automatic gearbox selects ratios smoothly
Recent discreet upgrades include electronic ignition, an electric cooling fan and upgraded lighting
Complete replacement exhaust system recently fitted
New front tyres and brake lines
Various suspension gaiters/boots replaced
The vendor reports that it has proved very reliable, even on long journeys, easily keeping up with modern traffic

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

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