In 1965, Rover's Managing Director, William Martin-Hurst, secured the tooling and production rights to the 3,528cc all-alloy OHV V8 '215' engine from Buick and, after a period of development, it was ready for use in Rover's model range. Although a marriage of expediency, the union between Rover's stately P5 and the ex-Buick V8 resulted in an unexpectedly fine motor car. The new aluminium V8 was significantly lighter and considerably more powerful than its predecessor, delivering 160bhp and a massive leap in torque to 210lb.ft. at 2,600rpm, vastly improving pace, comfort, balance, handling, economy and reliability.

Launched in 1967, the Rover P5B (or P5 Buick if you prefer) was conceived to stave off increasingly refined competition from the likes of Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz. Available in Saloon and Coupé guises, both of which employed four doors, the big Rover was equipped with independent torsion-bar front suspension, a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle and disc/drum brakes. Fitted with three-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering as standard, it proved a relaxing drive although capable of a comfortable 115mph. The exterior was mostly unchanged, apart from bold '3.5-Litre' badging, a pair of fog lights which were added below the headlights, creating a striking four-light array and the fitting of chrome Rostyle wheels with black painted inserts. The svelte Coupé had a slightly lower roof-line, slimmer chromed window surrounds, twin-armchair rear seats and additional dashboard instruments, and is the most collectable variant today. Production lasted until 1973 by which time 11,501 Saloons and 9,099 Coupés had been built, however, survivors are thought to number in the hundreds.

First seeing the light of day some 49 years ago in April 1973 and recently the subject of a rotisserie restoration to the very highest of standards, this outstanding P5B Coupé is finished in gleaming Bordeaux Red with a contrasting roof in Silver Birch and has to be one of the very best, if not ‘the’ best, available today. The 'Gentlemen's Club' interior is absolutely superb in light tan leather with mushroom carpets and burr walnut veneers and is the result of many hours of work by talented craftsmen.

The accompanying worksheets and list of parts used is one of the most comprehensive on record with a detailed outlay amounting to in excess of £100,000! Tasked with bringing the Rover back to life, Trevor Farrington Ltd, Classic and Sports Car Specialist, has left no stone unturned resulting in this outstanding example that would satisfy the most pedantic. Every nut and bolt has received attention with the fit and finish being a true credit to the craftsmen and engineers that were tasked with this extensive rebuild.

In period, these big coupés were head turners and were perceived to belong to comfortably off owners who appreciated quality and had a certain sense of style, and basically, nothing has changed. Your early inspection is welcomed and encouraged to fully appreciate the standard and quality of this incredible gentleman’s carriage.

Please note that the cherished registration number shown, DPO 3L, does not form part of the sale.