1933 Rover 14/6 Speed Pilot Sports

Rover's 14/6 Speed Pilot model was launched in the autumn of 1932 on a lengthened under-slung chassis, deploying its Pilot predecessor's 1,577cc, six-cylinder, overhead-valve engine in tuned, triple-carburettor configuration. The new frame enabled the adoption of low-line bodies, among them attractive 'streamline' versions of both saloon and coupé, while there were also bespoke creations by independent coachbuilders. Chassis specification included a four-speed freewheel gearbox, hydraulic brakes, Luvax-Bijur automatic lubrication and electric windscreen wipers. Tested by The Autocar in April 1933, a Rover 14 Speed Pilot four-seat tourer reached 50mph in 12.8 seconds and achieved a maximum speed of 77mph, highly respectable figures for a car of its class.

Pioneered on the expensive Speed Pilot, also known as the 'Speed Fourteen', the new under-clung chassis soon found its way onto the rest of the Rover range. The Speed Fourteen's arrival signalled a change of direction for Rover, bringing a welcome injection of style to a range that hitherto had been regarded as worthy but dull. This new policy is best exemplified by the 'Hastings' close-coupled coupé made by Carbodies of Coventry, who would enjoy close links with Rover throughout the 1930s.

Another stylish Carbodies creation, this Speed Pilot four-door sports tourer was owned for many years by the well-known Dutch Rover enthusiast, Harry Hildgerdenaar and is believed unique. (According to club records a less original two-door version still exists).

Descriptions & pictures by bonhams & fotocommunity & fahrzeugbilder