Rover Six classic cars for sale

History of the Rover Six

Unveiled in the early 20th century, the Rover Six marked the manufacturer's move toward refined, mid-sized motorcars. Produced during a formative period for the Rover brand, the Six targeted drivers seeking a dependable vehicle with slightly more power and prestige than the average family saloon of the time. Noteworthy for its focus on quality materials and conservative engineering, the Rover Six echoed the cautious ambitions of its era, catering to a discerning clientele interested in reliability and understated style.

Model History

The Rover Six is part of Rover’s tradition of numerically designated models, sitting between the smaller Four and larger Eight or Ten series. The lineage can be traced to earlier, even simpler Rover vehicles, but the Six introduced key improvements such as enhanced engine performance and more sophisticated coachwork. Over time, the Six would give way to larger models as motoring needs evolved and expectations for comfort and speed increased. Subsequent series in the Rover lineup, like the P-series, drew from the mechanical lessons learned with models like the Six.

Highlights of the Rover Six

A notable feature of the Rover Six is its solid engineering, which set new standards for the brand at the time. Buyers valued the model's straightforward mechanics, especially given the limited service infrastructure available during its production period. The model is now particularly rare, making any surviving example a talking point among classic car aficionados.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There is no documentation of factory-issued special editions for the Rover Six; production runs remained traditional and uniform. Individuality among examples often stems from custom coachbuilders or dealer-level modifications typical for vehicles of this vintage, including rare period accessories or bespoke interiors.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The hallmark of the Rover Six lies in its smooth, gradual power delivery and mechanical simplicity. The sidevalve engine, while not built for high speeds, provides enough torque for leisurely touring. A manual transmission requires double clutching, reflecting period driving practices but rewarding the driver with a more connected motoring experience. Steering is weighty but direct, and leaf-sprung suspension keeps the ride comfort-oriented—well adapted to the road surfaces of its timeline. Given the rarity of the Rover Six compared to other models like the Rover Eight or later P-series, enthusiasts often highlight examples with original bodies and matching engines as especially worthy of note.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Rover Six’s design reflects the restrained tastes of British buyers in the 1920s and 1930s. Body styles tend toward sedans or tourers, with upright grilles and minimal embellishment. Interiors make use of simple, high-quality materials such as leather and polished wood, but typically eschew lavish décor. Optional extras included factory-fitted luggage racks, period-correct lighting, and (in custom commissions) additional instrumentation. The overall aesthetic is one of quiet sophistication rather than ostentation, making the Six immediately recognisable among vintage Rovers.

Summary

The Rover Six stands as an example of the brand’s move towards reliable, robust midsize automobiles before and after the First World War. Owing to its rarity and construction, it tends to appeal most to collectors searching for authentic early British engineering. While not as widely available or well documented as later Rovers, the Six rewards owners with historical significance and a tangible link to a formative chapter of the UK automotive industry.