Footnotes

Facing increasing competition from faster rivals and with development of its ageing six-cylinder engine nearing its end, Rolls-Royce turned to V8 power as the 1960s approached. The V8 was, of course, the predominant power unit in Rolls-Royce's most important export market - the USA - so it was only natural that the Crewe firm would study the best American designs - principally those of Chrysler and Cadillac - for inspiration. Introduced in the autumn of 1959, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II and Bentley S2 appeared externally unchanged from their 'Cloud and S-Type predecessors, though the duo's performance was considerably enhanced by the new 6,230cc aluminium-alloy V8 engine. Although wider and shorter than the 'six' it replaced, the new power unit fitted relatively easily within the engine bay, relocation of the steering box from inside to outside of the chassis frame being the most obvious alteration to the previous arrangements. Externally the new models appeared virtually unchanged, while beneath the skin Rolls-Royce's own four-speed automatic transmission was now the only one on offer and power steering was standardised.

Launched in 1962, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III and its Bentley S3 equivalent employed the 6.2-litre V8 engine introduced on the 'Cloud II/S2 - though with larger carburettors, new distributor and raised compression ratio - and came with a four-speed GM-derived automatic transmission as standard equipment. Most obvious among many changes from the preceding models was the adoption of four-headlamp lighting, the absence of sidelights from the wing tops, and a slightly lower radiator shell. Inside there was improved accommodation with separate front seats and increased room for rear passengers. Notable as the last mainstream Rolls-Royce to employ a separate chassis, the Silver Cloud III proved immensely successful both at home and abroad, remaining in production until the autumn of 1965.

This Silver Cloud III was built to USA specification and delivered equipped with electric windows; plain Sundym glass throughout; Dunlop whitewall tyres; locking driver's cubby hole; and lambskin rugs. Finished in Porcelain White with beige interior, the car was retailed via Peter Satori and sold new to a Marguerite A Camp of Woodlands Hill, California. The current vendor purchased the Rolls-Royce in 2009 from Vantage Motor Works Inc of North Miami, Florida. Accompanying documentation consist of copies of original factory records; a State of Florida Certificate of Title; a hardback Silver Cloud Handbook; the original Rolls Royce Guarantee from 1964; 3 sets of keys and a copy of the 2009 purchase contract. Please note import taxes will be liable if the car is to remain in the EU. This smart example has probably undergone a full restoration and has been little used since, so remains in good condition. However due to a long period in storage an inspection of its mechanical components before returning to the road is recommended.