Highlights

Attractive and very rare Grey MkIII
One of only 2,501 MkIII coupes built
Starred in Inspector George Gently with Martin Shaw
Recently recommissioned after long-term dry storage
Fuel lines and brakes attended to
Desirable early Coupe with relaxing auto box

The Appeal

The P5 Coupe was the sort of innovative idea that the fiasco of British Leyland tends to overshadow. It introduced a racy idea to the otherwise rather upright P5 vibe and, perhaps for that very reason, proved popular with the outwardly straight-laced doctors, solicitors and politicians who bought the big Rover.

This lovely early MkIII leans into that theme with its pretty Grey paintwork and burgundy leather interior. The paintwork is possibly a later addition, but one that we firmly approve of because it looks so good on this very well-presented car.

Aside from its specification and looks, this car’s claim to fame is a starring role in the long-running ‘Inspector George Gently’ series. This featured Martin Shaw, clearly swapping tail-sliding Capris for more statesmanlike wheels. In recent years, the car has been in dry storage and little used by the current keeper, who acquired it in 2013.

The vendor recently retrieved the car from storage and has lightly recommissioned it. This has included new fuel lines and attention to the brakes. We are told that it starts and runs well.

The vendor says:

“Good useable classic, original condition, actual vehicle used in 'Inspector George Gently' featuring Martin Shaw.”

History and Paperwork

First registered 1st April 1966
Six registered keepers from the new
Current keeper since October 2013
Registered as painted grey by DVLA
VIN number 81000667A
Dry stored for 15 years according to the seller
Recently recommissioned by the seller as below and above
Featured in Inspector George Gently, as shown in the photos
Last MOT ran to August 2014 with one minor advisory
85,785 miles showing on MOT test and 85,967 miles in photos
Dry stored since last MOT test
Now MOT and tax exempt by age

The Condition

Attractive Grey paintwork in very good condition
Appears to be an older restoration little used since completion
There are few marks to the paintwork but due to age, buyers should be realistic
Bodywork also presents well, including arches, sills and panel edges
Chromework in good order, including bumpers and over-riders
Small dent to the front offside over rider to note
Sits on steel wheels with correct MkIII hub caps fitted
Very smart burgundy leather interior in good condition
Seats show light age, including marks to driver’s seat, but not unsightly
Well-kept red carpets as shown
Veneers to doors and dashboard in very good general condition
Switchgear, dials and dashboard present well in photos
Original radio and two-spoke factory steering wheel fitted
We are told that all interior functions work correctly

The Mechanics

2,995cc straight six Rover engine
Automatic gearbox
Recent new fuel lines
Brakes serviced prior to sale
Vendor reports that it starts and runs well

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:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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