1958-73 ROVER P5 3-LITRE

WHY LARKIN LOVES IT – ‘It’s magnificently engineered and thoroughly refined, with best quality materials throughout’

It would be difficult to argue the Rover P5 isn’t the best car in our line-up. Successive prime ministers can’t be

(that) wrong.

The P5 was beautifully built and a truly refined carriage. You’d easily get 90mph performance from the glorious 2995cc straightsix engine. Styling was more imposing than St Paul’s yet not quite as ostentatious. The leather and wood inside was quality without compromise and if economies were made, we’ve never managed to find them. Handling was better than many rivals, too.

All but the earliest cars had overdrive as standard and front disc brakes and an automatic version was available. A MkII model from 1962 incorporated improved suspension and a slicker gearshift. A coupé was added to the range in 1962, for dignified sportiness.