1957 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Long Wheelbase Limousine

Coachwork by H.J. Mulliner

4,887cc F-Head Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Single Downdraft Carburetor
Approximately 125bhp
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Delivered new to the US in left-hand drive
*Factory air conditioning
*Elegant, understated luxury
*Copies of factory records on file

THE ROLLS-ROYCE SILVER WRAITH

Rolls-Royce's first post-war model, the Silver Wraith debuted in late 1946 and employed a chassis similar to that of the Silver Dawn and MkVI Bentley, though with a 7" longer wheelbase at 10' 7". The Wraith, however, was only intended for traditional coachbuilt bodies rather than the MkVI's pioneering 'standard steel' bodywork. Only the bore and stroke dimensions were shared with the pre-war overhead-valve Wraith engine, the major advantage of this 'F-head' layout being its large valves and generous water jacketing around the valve seats. Manufacture of the short-wheelbase Wraith ceased in 1952, with a total production of 1,144; the long-wheelbase version continued until the introduction of the Phantom V in 1959, by which time 639 chassis had been completed.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

According to factory records, this Rolls was ordered new by one J.D. Nelson, Esquire of Cincinnati, Ohio and delivered to the port on September 9, 1954 for transport to New York aboard the Queen Elizabeth. A well optioned machine, it was fitted with power windows and aerial and 'complete air conditioning' for the comfort of both the passengers and driver. Finished in Shell Grey over Black Pearl with Grey leather up front and Grey broadcloth in the rear, it exuded understated elegance.

The early history of this Rolls is not further recorded or known at the time of cataloging, but it was subject to a restoration at some point in the 1980s or '90s during which the Black Pearl lower portion of the car was repainted Dove Grey. Acquired by the present owner in January 2009, it has been off the road on static display since. Still showing nicely with ample presence, after some recommissioning it would be a lovely touring car—especially for hot weather climates where the factory installed air conditioning is an added bonus!