Footnotes

"The size and grandeur of the car... deceive one about the performance which would do justice to many a car of more sporting pretensions. The finish, both in detail and the broader sense of equipment and trim, is superb." - Motor magazine on the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III.

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.

As well as the factory-bodied cars, bespoke creations from James Young and the recently merged firm of H J Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd (by this time Rolls-Royce-owned) continued to be available on the 'Cloud III chassis for those discerning enthusiasts wealthy enough to afford them. Indeed, as the factory did not offer a convertible or drophead coupé, a coachbuilt car was the only option if one's preference was Rolls-Royce-style fresh air motoring. First introduced in 1958, H J Mulliner's drophead was the most successful of its type, lasting into 1963.

Dating from the penultimate year of production and finished in black with grey leather interior, this car started life as a right-hand drive Silver Cloud III saloon, subsequently converted left-hand drive, drophead coupé configuration by Pilkington, a specialist workshop noted for its high quality conversions. The car was purchased by the current owner at Bonhams & Butterfields' sale at the Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles in November 2009 (Lot 348). The Rolls-Royce was said to have had the same owner for the preceding 13 years, and was described as 'meticulously maintained'. The motor has been on static display since acquisition and will naturally require recommissioning prior to road use. The car is offered with a copy of the 2009 sales invoice.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within the Netherlands the reduced rate of Import VAT at 9% will be charged on the hammer price. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.