File:British Motor Museum 09-2016 (29527452773).jpg

1961 Rover T4 Gas Turbine Saloon

Rover was a pioneer in gas-turbine technology for road vehicles. The T4 saloon was their fourth and last prototype for a road-going turbine car, although in 1963 they co-operated with BRM in constructing a racing car for Le Mans. They also produced a small series of gas-turbine lorries from 1968-69 in co-operation with Leyland Vehicles, before development of the engines was finally dropped in the early 70s.

The T4 was based on the 2000 prototype and was unveiled two years before the conventional 2000 production model actually reached the market. The 2S/140 turbine engine drives the front wheels and rear suspension is independent with swing axles. Kerosene consumption is in the range of 16-20 miles per gallon.

Rover claimed that the T4 could be produced in three years if the market was ready to accept it, at a price of £3000-£4000. The most expensive Rover in production at the time cost £1948. In fact, Rover had already abandoned any hope of putting a turbine engine car into production.

Engine: twin shaft gas turbine Top Speed: 115mph (185km/h) Power: 140bhp Coachwork: four door saloon Price New: not quoted