Lot 430: 1978 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II Saloon

Power assisted rack-and-pinion steering, split-level air conditioning and a completely revised dashboard and control layout were just some of the many improvements introduced on the Silver Shadow II range in 1977, the V8 engine already having undergone enlargement to 6,750cc in 1970. To satisfy the chauffeur driven market, a long-wheelbase version, available with or without division, had been introduced in 1969, this lengthened Shadow being christened ‘Silver Wraith II’ on the introduction of the ‘II’ range. A separate chassis having been abandoned, construction of the long-wheelbase Shadow was entrusted to Rolls-Royce’s in-house coachbuilder H J Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd, the required stretch being achieved by cutting a standard bodyshell in half and welding in panels. In keeping with the ‘formal’ tradition, the ’Wraith II came with a reduced-size, limousine-style rear window for greater privacy. Although ideally suited to ‘official’ duties and other formal work, the Silver Wraith appealed equally to owner-drivers and their families, who appreciated the increased roominess, particularly over long journeys. A total of 2,144 had been produced by 1980 when the model was replaced. The vendor purchased this Silver Wraith II in 1981 from its lady owner, who had employed a chauffeur to drive her Rolls-Royce. A division-less model, it had covered fewer than 20,000 miles when acquired. While in present ownership the car has been serviced by Kennings in London and then by ex-Kennings employees after that company’s closure. Always kept garaged, it has seen little use over the course of the past ten years. Items renewed recently include the wheel discs, tyres, starter motor and battery, while the dashboard has been restored. Firmer front shock absorbers and isolator switches for the air conditioning compressor and battery are the only non-standard fittings listed. The car is offered with tool kit, owner’s handbook, sundry service invoices, road fund licence to April 2007, MoT to March 2007 and Swansea V5 document.