In Brief:

Stunning example of the, now rare, Rover P2 12HP Tourer
Finished in Cream with a Tan soft top and contrasting Brown leather interior
Owned by The Vendor for the last 37 years
Just 1 former keeper - in the same family from new
1 of just 200 post war P2 Tourers made in 1947 and 1948
Estimated to be 1 of around 37 examples that remain

On the Surface:

A truly stunning example of the increasingly rare Rover P2 12HP Tourer, this post-war classic presents beautifully in Cream with a Tan soft top and contrasting Brown leather interior. It's aluminium bodywork is a product of AP Aircraft Ltd of Coventry—more famously known for producing Spitfires during the war.

Maintenance & History:

Just two owners from new—remarkably, this example has remained within the same family. The accompanying history file is extensive, comprising of three original Rover spares and parts manuals, a Rover Instruction Manual, a rich collection of historic MOT certificates, the original ‘buff’ logbook, and a large selection of invoices—some dating back to the late 1950s. This long-term custodianship and documentation provide a rare depth of provenance. This example has benefitted from significant mechanical and cosmetic work in 2014–2015, all undertaken with care to preserve its originality and drivability. Works included attention to the chassis, a new exhaust box, bodywork respraying, the fitment of an electric fuel pump, repainted wheels, brake overhaul, sump removal and cleaning, a new battery, new spark plugs, Waxoyl treatment, carburettor strip and clean, and gearbox maintenance. It stands today as a well-maintained and mechanically sound example, ready to be enjoyed.

The Model:

The Rover 12 was first introduced in 1934 as the P1, a semi-handbuilt saloon powered by a 1,496cc 4-cylinder OHV engine capable of an easy 70mph. The P2 followed in 1937, gaining a longer wheelbase, a stiffened chassis, and Girling brakes. While over 16,000 P2s were produced, the post war Sports Tourer variant was offered only between 1947 and 1948, with just 200 examples built. 4 of these examples were Rover bodied while the remaining 196 were crafted in aluminium by AP Aircraft Ltd and largely destined for export. It is believed that only around 37 survive today, making this a particularly scarce and desirable model.

Sale Insight:

An exceedingly rare post-war Rover with low ownership and outstanding provenance, this P2 12HP Tourer is a wonderful opportunity for any collector or enthusiast. Eligible for shows, rallies or weekend touring, it represents one of the last of the post war Rover P2 Sports Tourers.