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, b...