Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith classic cars for sale

History of the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith

Introduced in 1946, the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith marked a fresh start for the company after the tumult of the Second World War. As the direct successor to the pre-war Wraith and the Phantom III, it set new standards in luxury and sophistication, launching from the new Crewe factory, which had previously built engines for military aircraft. The Silver Wraith was supplied as a rolling chassis to renowned coachbuilders like Park Ward, Hooper & Co, and Franay, allowing for a vast variety of custom limousines, convertibles, and saloons — each tailored to the exacting demands of royalty, heads of state, and captains of industry. Throughout its production, the Silver Wraith rapidly became a byword for exclusivity and technical innovation, establishing itself in cinemas, state garages, and palaces across the world.

Model History

Production of the Silver Wraith ran from 1946 to 1958, replacing the Rolls-Royce Phantom III and the original Wraith. Early chassis featured a 127-inch wheelbase, with a longer 133-inch version arriving in 1952. Engine developments started with a 4.3-litre straight-six, followed by incremental enlargements to 4.6 litres in 1951 and finally 4.9 litres in 1954. The model range was initially offered only with a four-speed manual gearbox, with an automatic (General Motors Hydramatic) option introduced from 1952. The Silver Wraith was succeeded in the luxury saloon class by the Silver Cloud, while its name was later revived for the Silver Wraith II, an extended Silver Shadow II variant built from 1976 to 1980.

Highlights of the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith

Each Silver Wraith features a unique coachbuilt body, reflecting the distinct tastes and requirements of high society clients worldwide. Long and short wheelbase versions existed, with some of the most celebrated designs being the Park Ward Six Light Saloon, Hooper Empress, Franay Cabriolet, and bespoke state limousines. The car’s advanced independent front suspension, refined rear leaf springs, and optional automatic transmission were state-of-the-art in their day. The Silver Wraith’s social prominence is underlined by its use as a ceremonial state car in Ireland, Brazil, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Coachbuilt Rarities

Many Silver Wraiths are one-offs or ultra-rare bodies by names like Hooper, Park Ward, Franay, and James Young. Especially sought after are cars with famous provenance or unique features — such as state limousines with division screens, extra rear seating, or ceremonial modifications. The extended wheelbase versions, and certain convertibles or cabriolets, are particularly notable among collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While early Silver Wraiths were praised for their robust engineering, age and bespoke construction can mean that restoration and maintenance require in-depth technical knowledge and access to specialist services. Watch out for wear in the suspension, potential hydraulic or brake system issues on later cars (especially servo units under the Hispano-Suiza patent), and electrical faults — especially in cars heavily modified by coachbuilders. Given many models are custom-bodied, parts availability and sourcing exact trim may require considerable effort. Comprehensive history and documentation, which are common among well-maintained examples, are essential in assessing the car’s present condition.

Engine, Transmission, and Handling

The Silver Wraith’s straight-six delivers smooth, ample torque, particularly with the later 4.9-litre versions. Performance figures of the day were competitive for luxury cars — 0–100 km/h in roughly 10 seconds and top speeds close to 195 km/h, depending on configuration and bodywork. Almost all models feature rear-wheel drive. Post-1952 examples with GM Hydramatic automatics provide a seamless driving experience. Underpinned by an independent front suspension and rear leaf springs, the Silver Wraith set benchmarks for ride comfort, particularly over long distances and rougher post-war roads. - Park Ward Six Light Saloon: Elegant formal saloon, noted for its balanced appearance and luxury appointments.

• Hooper Empress: Flowing coachlines and distinctive styling marks this limited limousine as an outstanding collectible.
• Franay Cabriolet: Open-top grandeur combined with meticulous Parisian craftsmanship.
• State Landaulettes: Extended wheelbase, privacy partition, and armoured glass – tailored for royal and presidential duties.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Silver Wraith interiors are defined by bespoke luxury — hand-selected leather hides, precision-fitted high-quality woods (often walnut or mahogany), and interiors specified to owner wishes, including folding tables, privacy partitions, and even occasional seats. Externally, the car is a canvas for coachbuilders: from the dignified Park Ward saloons to flamboyant convertibles. Unique paint finishes and rare trims were common, and both left and right-hand configurations were built to suit national preferences. Optional Everflex roofs, split front or panoramic rear windscreens, and chromed embellishments are frequent. Many examples left the factory with period-appropriate accessories, from inlaid wood dashboards to deep-pile Wilton carpets, ensuring individuality in every car.

Other Noteworthy Features

The Silver Wraith’s starring roles in prominent films, including 'From Russia with Love' and 'Arthur,' as well as its state uses, add further distinction to its cultural footprint. Many existing cars boast full documentation, original service books, and detailed histories, enhancing their appeal to discerning buyers and historians alike.

Summary

The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith embodies a remarkable era of bespoke British luxury motoring, with each car expressing its owner’s taste and status. Its advanced engineering for the period, partnered with unique coachbuilt artistry, guarantees its continued relevance in classic car circles. A Silver Wraith is more than just a vintage vehicle: it is a hand-crafted testament to the exceptional standards Rolls-Royce established in the wake of World War II, appealing to collectors seeking individuality as much as prestige.