Rover P4 and P5: books - history and models

Rover P5 and P5B - The Complete Story

The Rover P5 was the last great example of traditional British luxury saloons, focusing on quality rather than sportiness. Its spacious interior, refined design, and classic wood and leather details still make it highly regarded among classic car enthusiasts.

In this book, James Taylor traces the history of the Rover P5, from the launch of the original 3-litre Mk 1 in 1958 to the final 3.5-litre P5B, famously used by the Queen.

The book covers:
- The development and history of all P5 and P5B models
- Full specifications for each version
- The P5's role in motorsport
- Practical advice on buying and owning a Rover P5 today

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Rover P4 - The Complete Story

Launched in 1949, the Rover P4 offered comfort and refinement, making it a popular choice among professionals in the 1950s. Production ended in 1964, by which time the P4 had become somewhat outdated. However, it established Rover's reputation for high-quality engineering and paved the way for the successful P5 and P6 models.

This book covers:
- The design and development of the P4
- Key personalities and features
- Specifications for each model
- Chassis numbers, production figures, and paint and trim options

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Rover P4

Launched in 1949, the Rover 75 was seen as revolutionary for its time, with a modern design that broke away from past styles.
In this book, Rover expert James Taylor explores the development of all P4 models, from the 75 to the 110 of the early 1960s, offering a detailed insight into a car still affectionately called "Auntie."

Despite its traditional look, the Rover P4 combined solid construction with wood and leather interiors and excellent driving dynamics, making it both enjoyable to own and drive. It was complemented by the Rover P5 and later replaced by the Rover P6. During its production, the P4 became a favorite among professionals and a symbol of conservative British values.

Even after production ended, the Rover P4 remained popular with classic car enthusiasts.
This book provides a clear and engaging overview of all P4 models and their evolution, making it a valuable resource for Rover P4 owners and classic car fans.

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Rover P4

The Rover P4 series, introduced in 1949, was designed to lead Rover into the postwar era. Known today as the 'Aunty' Rover, it maintained the brand's reputation for high-quality engineering and appealed to professionals such as doctors, solicitors, and bank managers.

Despite its traditional image, the P4 featured innovative elements, including the distinctive 'Cyclops' central headlight, disc brakes, a freewheel system, and overdrive. Larger-engine models offered surprisingly strong performance.

Production continued until 1964, with several model variations, all powered by four or six-cylinder engines. During this period, Rover also experimented with gas turbine technology in P4 bodies, leading to the creation of the JET 1. The Marauder sports car was another notable development based on the P4.

Many P4s have survived and remain cherished by classic car enthusiasts. This reprinted edition provides a definitive history of the Rover P4 from 1949 to 1964, covering all models, including the Marauder and experimental jet-powered versions.

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