Lot 145 - 1933 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Touring Saloon by Park Ward
| Lot Number | 145 |
| Registration | CZ 2002 |
| Chassis Number | GRW43 |
| Engine Number | N6Y |
| Odometer reading | 47,913 miles |
| Result | Sold - £51,520 |
A logical progression from Rolls-Royce's first `owner driver' model, the 20hp, the 20/25hp was introduced in 1929 and remained in production until 1936. Near identical to its forebear, at least to begin with, the newcomer enjoyed a greater turn of speed thanks to an enlarged 3669cc, overhead valve, straight-six engine. Fed by a single Rolls-Royce carburettor and carrying both magneto and coil ignition, the super-smooth power plant was mounted in unit with a four-speed manual gearbox (the latter operated via a traditional right-hand change). Capable of supporting a wide variety of coachwork, the 20/25hp's substantial ladder frame chassis was equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, four-wheel drum brakes and a mechanical servo.
This strikingly handsome Park Ward saloon was originally supplied by Agnew Graham in Belfast; the invoice price being an eye-watering £1,537-17s-3d. The body is by Park Ward and is similar to the Rolls-Royce test car 20-G-IV ‘The Goshawk’. After being found in a sorrowful state in 1998 by Professor Ian Craft, he then set about restoring the car. The current vendor has owned the Rolls-Royce since 2007 and has lovingly cherished her. Being a very fastidious owner, he wasn’t happy with the way she was running and put CZ 2002 into Sargeants of Goudhurst for a full engine rebuild. Invoices for over £45,000 are available confirming the significant investment this 20/25 has benefitted from in recent years. The two-tone blue coachwork is in good order and the ample chromework is delightful as is the red leather interior. With style, class and opulence in abundance, this Rolls-Royce 20/25 by Park Ward is powered by a 3669cc straight-six engine and we are advised drives extremely well. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a significant history folder, this pre-war Rolls-Royce is one of the best examples we have seen for some time.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.