Rover are one of the oldest British car manufacturers. William Sutton and John Starley co-founded a bicycle factory in the city of Coventry in 1877. In 1884 Rover introduced an innovative "safe" bicycle. In 1903 they launched their first motorcycle, followed a year later by an 8hp car. Rover produced bicycles, motorcycles and cars at the same time. In the 1920's, during one of several crisises, Spencer Wilks was appointed as director. Brother Maurice became the principal engineer.
The company was effectively slimmed down by Spencer to focus on production unification. Rover cars produced prior to the Second World War have a reputation as quality cars with a high degree of standardization.
Unfortunately the company was never financially viable and as with many other now defunct British manufacturers severely suffered from insufficient capital input. Following various government interventions during the 60s and 70s, Rover finally collapsed being declared bankrupt a couple of years ago.
The information on this website is derived from my own knowledge base and experiences as encountered over several years of dealing in Land Rovers. If there are any mistakes or errors, I apologise. I will add more information as and when I get time.
