Lot 173 - 1998 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph
| Lot Number | 173 |
| Registration | R783 SLE |
| Chassis Number | SCALA61E2XCH01200 |
| Engine Number | 6052/696 |
| Odometer reading | 30,591 miles |
| Result | Sold - £40,186 |
- Outstanding condition throughout
- Good history file with recent service
The Silver Seraph was first unveiled on 3rd March, 1998 at the Geneva Motor Show and, whenever a new Rolls-Royce appears, it is the manner in which tradition is weighed against innovation that most intrigues the public. It replaced the Silver Spur which ended production in 1997. All Seraphs were handbuilt at the Rolls-Royce factory in Crewe, England, which stopped making Rolls-Royce models in 2002 but continued with Bentley. The car had a base price of £155,175 in the UK and was powered by a 5.4 litre aluminium alloy BMW V12 engine, making it the first twelve-cylinder Rolls-Royce since the 1939 Phantom III. Standard electronics included digital engine management, adaptive ride control and anti-lock brakes. Aside from the radiator grille, badges and wheels, the Rolls-Royce was externally identical to the contemporary Bentley Arnage, sharing both its platform and bodyshell. Inside, the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph and the Bentley Arnage were similar but quite distinct from one another. In the Seraph, the gear selector was column-mounted and the gauges followed a traditional Rolls-Royce layout (for example, there was no tachometer). In both cars, the seats and dashboard were upholstered in Connolly leather, with dashboard trim and folding picnic trays for rear passengers and burr walnut veneer. Build quality was by all accounts even better than before.
Originally supplied by H.R.Owen and registered on 7th April 1998, this Rolls-Royce presents in fabulous condition throughout. The Peacock Blue paintwork is unmarked as is the Barley leather interior and it is evident that the knowledgeable and fastidious vendors have maintained this Silver Seraph exceedingly well. When you open the door you are greeted with an abundance of deep rich woodwork and the seats are exceedingly comfortable. Taking into account these were amongst the last Rolls-Royces to be built at Crewe, collectors and enthusiasts alike have now recognised these cars as fine investments. The 5379cc V12 engine operates smoothly and efficiently, offering brisk performance. The car is supplied with a V5C registration document and an MoT test certificate valid until 8th March 2021 together with the original service books and a good history folder, which includes confirmation work carried out by marque specialist N.Sandell of Isleworth and a recent service. This low mileage Rolls-Royce is one of the finest examples we have seen, any inspection is welcome.
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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.