Lot 022: Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit

There were no real surprises in Autumn 1980 when Rolls-Royce unveiled their new Silver Spirit and its long wheelbase counterpart, the Silver Spur, alongside Bentley's sporting Mulsanne range. The well-proven 6,750cc V8 engine previously used in the Silver Shadow was retained but the new car featured more modern, angular styling being longer, wider and lower but with 30 per cent more glass area. Road-holding was reported to be "the best yet from Rolls-Royce" thanks to significant improvements to the self-levelling rear suspension and the new car had a top speed of 120mph.Interior appointments were as luxurious as ever, using only the finest hides and veneers, the most noticeable change being the adoption of separate rear seats and the re-instatement of folding picnic tables. "A gloriously individual possession that signifies impeccable excellence and taste, an extravagant celebration of detail over function, a monument in the driveway and an occasion to drive," was how Autocar summed it up.First registered in June 1987, this car has been in the same family since 1992 and has been known to the vendor since 1989. He states that the indicated mileage of around 34,700 is absolutely correct, though there is insufficient documentary evidence to prove this. The condition of the car would certainly appear to bear out the low mileage and it really is a stunning looking example.The car comes with various old MOTs and bills and within the past year has been treated to four new Avon whitewall tyres; a new steering rack; new air con pump; new radiator; new suspension spheres; all new belts and filters and a full service.Said by the vendor to "drive perfectly" and to be "immaculate" underneath, it is supplied with an attractive and valuable private plate, 75 HCY. What more could you want?