1961' Rover P4

Rescued from a dry shed, where it had lived for more than 30 years, this Rover P4 100 has recently been treated to a light recommissioning to get it back to decent running condition.

The Rush Green over Shadow Green paintwork is flaking in places and would benefit from a refresh. But as an early 100 with mainly alloy panels rust is very localised and largely superficial. All the trim is present and correct (although the L/ H rear waistline chrome needs refitting as too the small chrome strips to the rear of both front wheel arches). The chrome is presentable and solid but, again, the new owner may wish to get the brightwork re-plated to bring it back to the standard it deserves. The interior is bone dry with no corrosion at all on the floors, boot etc. The chassis was, fortunately, heavily wax-sealed so, again, rot is very limited.

Inside is lovely, complete and undamaged: the tan leather in great condition and no signs of any cracking or distress to the dash. This car comes with the original seperate front seats which were an optional upgrade at the time instead of the single bench seat. Strap hangers and adjustable front arm rests are in place and working and the original pull-out tool tray is still there under the glove box complete with a selection of tools.

The car now drives and stops without drama. We’ve put on a new brake master cylinder and brake hoses so the brakes are operational. Fuel tank has been off and all the waxy sludge removed. Fuel pumps renewed and fresh fuel now being supplied healthily to the cleaned-up carburettor. We’ve tidied the wiring and put in a new ignition switch, points and coil. All now fires-up on demand with clutch and gearbox (which is the desirable 4-speed manual with overdrive) seemingly happy and smooth.

This is a running project for improvement. There is, undoubtedly, plenty for the new owner to throw themselves in to in order to bring this car back to its best. But with such a solid and original foundation to work with this should be a relatively straightforward and rewarding exercise. With prices for these P4s on the up now is the time to grab a piece of iconic post-war British motoring and get it back on the road where it belongs.

Note: we’re currently in the process of re-registering the car with DVLA. Sadly, relevant documentation for this car has been misplaced over time.