The designer got his inspiration from the Citroen DS and, for its time, it was very advanced. It's a Rover P6B, the B is for Buick because of the engine, it's all alloy. It won the European car of the year in 1964.
It is a lovely car to drive, a typical Rover, it gives a very smooth drive. It has four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and the first crumple zone of any English car, for safety. It was very advanced for its day.
I like the eccentricity and individuality the car exudes in this homogenised age and I like that it was assembled in New Zealand. And I like the sound of the V8 engine.
What is the main consideration if you are buying a car?
The enjoyment of driving. My "normal" car is an Audi RS4 and, again, it's a V8.
What was the first car you owned?
My first car was a Volkswagen Beetle when I was 13 in Hawkes Bay.
Your dream car?
I used to manage Ferrari Maserati in Auckland at Continental Cars so my dream car is a Ferrari F40.
Favourite colour?
That depends on the car, it's subjective. For Ferrari or an Alfa, red; but I would not have a red BMW.
Who taught you to drive?
My father. I had a motorised go-kart when I was about 5 and my father taught me to drive when I was about 7.
Manual or automatic?
Manual mainly but it would depend on the car. For luxury cars, I prefer automatic.
How often do you clean your car?
Every two weeks.
Most memorable road trip?
It would have to be when I drove a Ferrari 360 through the middle of the North Island to Wellington when I was a manager. I called in and saw Chris Amon in Bulls and he had a drive of it. He was a Ferrari test driver, a lovely fella.
What do you listen to?
I listen to National Radio. I like it because it is stimulating for the mind.
What's a great day trip out of Auckland?
Matakana for the markets.
Does what people drive influence how you perceive them?
I try not to but I don't like Priuses, particularly. I find it a shame they have to be so ugly. But I do think the BMW electric cars look great.
Who else is allowed to drive your car?
I think only my father has driven my RS4. Not many people can drive manuals. My Rover, most of my friends and family. I'm not precious.
Do you have a personalised plate?
I'm not an advocate but I do like that my Rover has its original plate.
Bike and cars ... is there space for both on NZ roads?
I think there is with a bit more consideration from both. I have a motorbike and I think that is safer to ride than a cycle because it does the same speed as cars. It is difficult to ride a pushbike in Auckland.
What irritates you about other drivers?
Not moving out of the right-hand lane on the motorway and not pulling over when towing on long trips.
As told to Donna McIntyre
