To understand the Rover P5, it is necessary to understand British society in the sixties.

Its appeal lay in its respectability and quality, but without the whiff of flashiness that surrounded Jaguar. Contrary to popular perception, the upper classes would more often than not steer away from the likes of Bentley and Rolls Royce, preferring the more discrete charms of the Rover, compared with the ostentation of the higher end marques.

This preference extended all the way to The Queen herself, who was regularly driven in a Rolls Royce on state occasions, but even more regularly drove (herself) in a Rover P5.

Not that it wasn't OK to be a bit flashy, which rather explains the P5 coupe featured here. The saloon version of the car was, to be honest, a bit matronly, but the Coupe, with its rev counter and extra gauges, individual seats, frameless doors and svelte roofline was altogether more sophisticated, and almost uniquely managed to pull off the look of power, prestige and style - without any hint of arrogance.

It is for this reason (and it's comparative rarity) that the Coupe is so much more desirable and valuable today than the saloon version, with which it shares its mechanicals.

ABOUT THIS CAR

• This particular P5 has benefited from much expenditure in recent years, to return it to its present excellent condition.
• It was imported from Australia in 2005, having been delivered new there in 1969. Whilst in relatively sound condition at that time, its 36 years had begun to take its toll cosmetically.
• Upon arrival in New Zealand, the car was treated to a full engine recondition, in addition to refurbishment of the suspension components, replacement OEM Woodhead dampers, and new bushes and ball joints throughout. Brakes were renewed, carburettors reconditioned and a new stainless exhaust system to the original pattern was fitted to complete the mechanical update.
• During this time the decision was made to respray the sides of the car in the original Bordeaux red, whilst maintaining the original Silver Birch roof, and original paint on bonnet and boot.
• The original black leather was in good condition and merely required cleaning, but the carpets were beyond repair and quality wool carpets and over mats as close as possible to the original close pile Wilton, were sourced from a UK specialist.
• The original African Mahogany woodwork was refinished in the correct low sheen finish, and a period correct Radiomobile radio replaced the decidedly non period Sony that someone had installed previously.
• The clock now reassuringly ticks off the minutes in its corner of the dash, as the chrome RoStyle wheels tick off the miles, and the wipers perform their little dance skipping over the windscreen bezel when switched off. In short, everything that was either missing or damaged was either refurbished or replaced.
• The original tools including the tyre pump are all present and correct, and much attention to detail has been the hallmark of this restoration.
• In short, this particular Rover P5B now presents and drives at the top level, and will continue to be an appreciating asset and a source of pleasure for the new owner, and a proud addition to any classic collection.

This car is in Mint condition. It will appeal to a distinguished buyer who is after a fine example of this model.

Will be sold WOF'd and Registered.

TRANSPORT / SHIPPING CAN BE ORGANISED ON THIS VEHICLE ON BUYER'S BEHALF AT BUYERS COST.

Viewing is STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT only.