Rolls-Royce Wraith classic cars for sale

Introduction and history of Rolls-Royce Wraith

The name 'Wraith' in the Rolls-Royce lineage underlines not only technical prowess but also bespoke exclusivity across decades. Originally launched in 1938, the pre-war Rolls-Royce Wraith offered a unique canvas for the era’s coachbuilders, providing customers flexibility in forming their ideal vehicle. Just 491 chassis were produced before World War II interrupted production, making the original model a rare find. Fast forward to 2013, and Rolls-Royce revived the name for a modern coupé. This second Wraith shifted the focus toward a dynamic, yet lavish, driving experience. The lineage has always married advanced engineering—silky six-cylinder smoothness in the 1930s or bi-turbo V12 muscle in the contemporary version—with meticulous craftsmanship and a focus on driver comfort.

Model history

The first Wraith, built between 1938 and 1939, succeeded the 25/30 hp and was positioned as a more sophisticated chassis, often delivered to renowned coachbuilders like Park Ward and Windovers. Body shapes ranged from formal limousines to elegant drophead coupés. After a decades-long absence, the Wraith name returned in 2013 as a coupé version of the Ghost. Built on a shortened Ghost platform, it was paired exclusively with Rolls-Royce’s 6.6-litre V12. The Wraith occupies its own space – a grand tourer with sharper dynamics and stronger performance while maintaining the peerless ride quality expected of the brand.

Highlights of Rolls-Royce Wraith

Key attributes of the Wraith series include a discreet yet robust powertrain, a focus on silent motoring, and a wide range of innovative comfort and safety features. The 2013 Wraith holds the distinction of being the most powerful Rolls-Royce at launch, with a 632 PS V12 that delivers abundant performance in near silence. Generations of coachbuilding tradition are reflected in unique, bespoke variants seen throughout both historical and modern iterations. Standout features include the signature 'Starlight Headliner,' rear-hinged doors with soft-close, and options like a panoramic roof, advanced driver assistance tech, and premium Hi-Fi audio systems

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Throughout its production, the Rolls-Royce Wraith offered limited editions such as the "Music Edition" and other one-off entries via the 'Bespoke' programme. Pre-war chassis frequently gained unique coachbuilt bodies, sometimes as drophead coupés or elegant ‘Swept Tail’ concepts. Later years have seen limited runs with distinct interior trims, exterior colours, and exclusive commemorative badges – bolstering the Wraith’s appeal among collectors.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The character of the Rolls-Royce Wraith stems from its powertrain and chassis sophistication. While the 1938 Wraith’s inline-six priorities smoothness and refinement, the 2013-on V12 surges forward with 632 PS, pairing instantaneous torque delivery with low cabin noise. The transmission, whether a classic four-speed or a modern 8-speed automatic, favours seamless shifts and minimal intrusion. Air suspension creates a float-like ride, but handling is firmed for confident cornering. Digital driver aids such as night vision and 360-degree cameras are available in modern iterations to further bolster confidence. Noteworthy models include the original Wraith chassis with coachwork by Park Ward (noted for saloon and drophead bodies), Windovers, and modern Wraith 'Black Badge' editions with recalibrated dynamics for more spirited road manners.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Every Wraith generation stands as an exemplar of luxury: Early chassis arrived as bare frames to be appointed with bespoke interiors — polished hardwood, deep-pile carpets, and finely stitched leather from renowned coachbuilders. The modern Wraith’s cabin features extensive hand-finished wood veeners, leather, as well as technical refinements like a 'Starlight Roof,' premium infotainment, and seamless ambient lighting. Options such as panoramic roofs, bespoke audio, and meticulously selected colour combinations are common. Accessories – including Teflon-coated umbrellas stored in the fenders and self-righting wheel centres – are distinctive marks of ingenuity. Each car represents the owner’s taste, from monogrammed headrests to unique exterior paints, all achievable through the in-house Bespoke programme.

Other relevant features

Some examples boast notable period accessories, like fold-out picnic tables and extended rear seat comfort, especially in coachbuilt chassis. Modern Wraiths provide security systems with motion sensors and hard-drive music storage, showcasing a blend of heritage and high tech.

Summary

The Rolls-Royce Wraith, whether as a rare 1938 chassis or the uncompromising modern coupé, sets benchmarks in customisation, craftsmanship, and performance. With 100% representation in both current supply and demand statistics on Classic Trader, the Wraith’s status in the world of classic luxury cars is undisputed.