Writing about really old cars pose a set of different challenges for me, as information is not readily available to source from. However, I was still excited to come across this 1925 Rover 9/20 HP in a random industrial estate!
The Rover 9 was introduced in 1924, as a replacement for the Rover 8. It was advertised by Rover as "The Nippy Nine" with emphasis on its water coolant circulated by pump, pressure lubricated engine, 3-speed gearbox and silent rear axle. It was powered by a 1074 cc straight-4 engine, producing 20 brake horsepower (hence its name). Different body styles were available, such as tourers, saloons and coupes with 2 and 4-seat options. There were also different wheelbases between the "Standard", "Deluxe" and "Super" versions; this unit appears to be a Deluxe with a wheelbase of 2515 mm, fitted with a dickey or "mother-in-law" seat at the back.
Production of the Rover 9 ended in 1927 with an estimated 13,000 made, where it was replaced by the Rover 10/25 hp. It is not clear where this car was originally from as it does not have any number plates. The "Four Wheel Brakes" sign is an interesting touch; some cars back then only had brakes on 2 wheels. Interestingly, the 9 was sold in Singapore back in 1925 by Central Motors Limited: a 2-seater tourer retailed at $1,925.
This car appears to have been here for quite a long time and does not seem to be registered any time soon: most probably it will be for someone's private collection. I am not sure if it will ever go on the road again, but hopefully you will have a chance to see this 100-year old antique!
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