Rover 90, 1958
Rover P3
Rover P3•
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Chassis No.: 610900642
Engine No.: 610900786
Registration: 789 PYD
The Rover P4 series of cars were manufactured from 1949 through to 1964 during which period several models were produced; the Rover 60, 75, 80, 90, 95 100, 105 and 110 models. Apart from the 60 and 80, the models all had in-line six cylinder engines with overhead inlet valves and side exhaust valves. Various transmissions were used including either a manual, manual overdrive box or, until 1959, the option of the manual gear box with a free wheel unit. The bodies were mounted on a separate chassis with independent suspension by coil springs at the front and semi elliptical leaf springs at the rear. By 1950 the brakes were fully hydraulic with discs at the front being standard from 1959.
The 90 was luxurious with its silky 2.6 litre, straight six engine with stopping power via the power assisted brakes. The coachwork featured an alloy bonnet, doors and boot lid with the interior finished in wood and leather.
The original buff log book shows that this Rover was first registered on the 3rd November, 1958 to Sidney Fussell & Sons Limited, of Rode, Somerset. The first change of owner came about in 1962 when Percy John Fussell took the car out of company ownership into his. In 1967, a Mr Mitchell took possession for one year whereupon a Mr Dennis Royston Williams took ownership in March 1968. Mr Williams and his wife Gwendoline named the Rover 'Bessy'.
Mr Williams had a fascinating wartime history; all explained in newspaper articles within the history file; not only that, but he went on to own 'Bessy' for 34 years until he decided to retire and sell her but with one condition; the purchaser would have to buy the garage it was kept in as well! During his 34 years ownership, all receipts for works, parts and correspondences from the Rover Company were kept; it appears that Mr Williams was very fussy and liked his Rover 'just so'. 'Bessy' was eventually sold to a chap who only wanted the garage and therefore a further sale of the car ensued.
The new owner carried out many works including fresh paintwork and replacement of the leather seats by Bristol Cars Ltd. These works, carried out to a high standard, resulted in awards from the Great Western Rover Drivers Guild for Best 90 in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2009. Further works were carried out more recently including a new exhaust, brake overhaul and a new clutch. The current owner has also carried out works to maintain the Rover; these include a new water pump, hoses and radiator. The British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate states that 'Bessy' was built on the 21st October 1958 and the registration number 789 PYD was issued in Somerset.
We strongly advise that you inspect the history file as it makes fascinating reading.
The coachwork is finished in the original colour of Dove Grey complemented by an interior finished with fine woodwork, soft red leather and excellent carpets. Although from November 2012 an MoT certificate will not be required on pre 1960 vehicles, the vendor, for peace of mind, has put a new 12 month certificate on her, with that and the tax free road fund licence valid until the end of January 2013, you may enjoy this charming motor car, as the Rover Company used to say - "one of Britain's finest cars" straight away.
