Lot 290 - 1978 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II
| Lot Number | 290 |
| Registration | LGH 771T |
| Chassis Number | LRX33103 |
| Engine Number | 33103 |
| Odometer reading | 14,199 miles |
| Result | Sold - £19,244 |
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow is a luxury car that was manufactured from 1965 to 1980. It was the first Rolls-Royce to use unitary body and chassis construction, in response to concerns that the company was falling behind in automotive innovation. The design was a major departure from its predecessor, the Silver Cloud; although several styling cues from the Silver Cloud were modified and preserved, as the automobile had sold well. The original Shadow was 3 1⁄2 inches narrower and 7 inches shorter than the Silver Cloud however the car managed to offer increased passenger and luggage space thanks to more efficient packaging made possible by unitary construction. Aside from a more modern appearance and construction, the Silver Shadow introduced many new features such as disc rather than drum brakes, and independent rear suspension. Initially, the long-wheelbase model did not have a separate name, but in 1976, with the introduction of the Silver Shadow II, the longer wheel base model was dubbed the Silver Wraith II. The Wraith II is identified by all alterations found on the Silver Shadow II and additionally an Everflex-covered roof, a smaller rear opera-style window and different wheel covers. Some Silver Wraith IIs were also fitted with electric divisions.
Originally registered to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa B.H. Al Tani from 1978 until 2008, this Rolls-Royce was manufactured as a lefthand drive example and with a division. In 2009, a left to righthand drive conversion was carried out by Gallimore’s Rolls-Royce specialist in Manchester by the current registered keeper. At the same time, a new MPH speedometer was fitted and adjusted to reflect the kilometre reading; the total mileage covered by this Silver Wraith is 14,186. Since 2009 in excess of £28,000 has been spent resulting in a splendid example of a rare and interesting Rolls-Royce. Recent service work has been carried out by P & A Wood in Essex. Finished in Claret with grey interior and as with most Royal vehicles, the seats are trimmed in velour. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate together with an interesting history folder, similar example Rolls-Royces have achieved strong prices of late, this low mileage Silver Wraith with only one previous keeper is expected to continue the trend.
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.