ROVER 'Pilot'

The ROVER 'Pilot' was introduced in mid 1931. In general it was the six cylinder version of the '10/25 hp'. With this model Rover jumped on the fashion wave of small six-cylinder models that was prevalent in the early 1930s.

Major B H Thomas, who worked at Hillman as a engine specialist, came to ROVER in 1929 at the request of Spencer Wilks. He developed a small six-cylinder engine from Wilds 10/25 hp unit, which was initially rated by the RAC at 12.95hp with 1410 cc and a four bearing crankshaft.

Already in February 1932, the compression was increased and the 'Pilot' was equipped with servo-assisted brakes.

The cars of the model year 1933 offered from autumn 1932 on had the enlarged engine with 1577 cc capacity, which was classified by the RAC as 14hp. The cars of the model year 1933 came along on a new chassis; the most striking feature was the change of the rear suspension: Instead of quarter elliptic springs on the rear axle, semi-elliptic springs were now used, which were mounted under the rear axle - so-called 'underslung' construction. This allowed the entire body to be lowered. However, one had to accept a small tunnel in the footwell. At the same time the 'Pilot' - like all other Rover models - was equipped with the freewheel gearbox.

The 'Pilot' did not arouse much enthusiasm among the automotive audience. The saloon as well as the coupé were elegant and reliable, but both models with the steeply standing radiator looked quite stiff and strict. This changed with the model year 1933, the proportions were now more harmonious, sportier and even more elegant.

From the introduction of the 'Pilot' a Saloon - with all-steel or Weymann bodywork - and the Sportsman's Coupé with Weymann bodywork were offered. In 1933 the Sportsman's Coupé was dropped. The Saloon and the all-new Coupé were only available with all-steel bodies. In addition, the chassis was used for some special models of which it is not known whether and in which quantities they were launched. Around 3,000 units of the 'Pilot' were produced, but the numbers are very vague.