Lot 342: 1977 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II Sedan

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 dispensed with, construction of the long-wheelbase ’Shadow was entrusted to Rolls-Royce’s in-house coachbuilder H J Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd, who achieved the required stretch by cutting a standard bodyshell in half and welding in extender 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 such 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.

This Silver Wraith II displays a total of 25,767 miles on the odometer and comes with a documented appraisal carried out by Charles B Wilson Associates Inc, of Canton, Massachusetts, in which its condition is rated ‘good’ in all major respects, both mechanical and cosmetic. Fitted equipment includes air conditioning, power-assisted steering, leather-upholstered power seats, power brakes, cruise control, power door locks, power windows and tilt steering wheel.