1933 Rover 14/6 Speed Pilot Sports Tourer
Introduced in autumn 1932, Rover’s lengthened underslung chassis represented a significant departure from the traditional frame that rose over the rear axle. The new arrangement ran beneath the back axle, limiting suspension travel but enabling lower coachwork and contributing to the model’s dramatic stance.
Carbodies of Coventry produced several stylish interpretations, including streamlined saloons, close-coupled coupes, and the rare Speed Pilot sports tourer.
The chassis incorporated Lockheed hydraulic brakes, Luvax-Bijur automatic lubrication, and electric windscreen wipers, all advanced features for 1932. These mechanical refinements were paired with eye-catching bodywork that gave Rover an uncharacteristically sporting image during the early 1930s.
Power came from a 1,577cc overhead-valve inline-six producing approximately 54 horsepower at 4,800 rpm through triple carburetors, paired with a four-speed gearbox featuring freewheeling. The Autocar’s April 1933 road test recorded 0-50 mph in 12.8 seconds and a 77 mph top speed, respectable figures for the class.
The Speed Pilot marked a notable styling shift for Rover, injecting visual flair into a marque previously regarded as competent but conservative. The underslung chassis concept soon appeared across the broader Rover lineup, validating the engineering approach pioneered on this higher-priced and more adventurous model.
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