This 1909 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost Roi Des Belges is equipped with a 7.5 Liter 6 Cylinder three speed transmission. Originally bodied with landaulette coachwork by Hooper and was recreated with “Roi Des Belges” style by Willis in 1972. The Roi Des Belges style was originally created in 1901 by King Leopold of Belgium.
AutoCar magazine proclaimed in 1907 that it was the best car in the world.
The 1909 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Roi des Belges is a legendary automobile that combines exceptional engineering, luxurious design, and historical significance. Its powerful engine, elegant bodywork, and smooth performance helped establish Rolls-Royce as a premier manufacturer of luxury cars. The Silver Ghost's legacy continues to be celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered vehicles in automotive history.
Overview
- Production Year: 1909
- Manufacturer: Rolls-Royce Limited
- Model: Silver Ghost Roi des Belges
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1909 Silver Ghost was powered by a 7.0-liter (7036 cc) inline six-cylinder engine.
- This engine produced approximately 48 horsepower, which was substantial for the time.
- The engine was noted for its smooth and quiet operation, thanks to meticulous balancing and craftsmanship.
- Transmission:
- The car featured a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The transmission was known for its reliability and ease of use, contributing to the car's refined driving experience.
- Chassis:
- The Silver Ghost had a robust and well-engineered chassis that provided a stable and comfortable ride.
- It had a wheelbase of 135 inches, offering ample space for a luxurious interior and smooth ride quality.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension used semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- The rear suspension featured a live axle with cantilever leaf springs.
- This suspension setup provided a balance between comfort and handling, ensuring a pleasant ride even on rough roads.
- Brakes:
- The car was equipped with mechanical brakes on the rear wheels, which were standard for the period.
- The braking system was effective for the car's performance and weight.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost could achieve a top speed of around 60 mph (97 km/h), which was impressive for a luxury car of its time.
- Acceleration: The car's large, smooth-running engine provided adequate acceleration, making it a capable performer for both city and country driving.
- Handling: The Silver Ghost was renowned for its exceptional handling and ride comfort, thanks to its well-engineered chassis and suspension.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Roi des Belges body style, designed by Barker & Co., featured a distinctive and elegant design with a high, rounded rear and flared fenders.
- The car had an open-top configuration with a folding soft top, providing an airy and luxurious driving experience.
- The exterior was adorned with brass fittings, a polished grille, and large, round headlights, enhancing its regal appearance.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Silver Ghost was luxurious, with high-quality leather upholstery, fine wood trim, and plush carpeting.
- The seating arrangement was spacious, offering ample legroom and comfort for passengers.
- The dashboard featured a simple yet elegant design, with essential gauges and controls easily accessible to the driver.
- Styling:
- The car's styling was a blend of elegance and sophistication, with flowing lines and a stately presence.
- The Roi des Belges design was particularly admired for its graceful proportions and attention to detail.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1909 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is significant for establishing Rolls-Royce's reputation for excellence in engineering and luxury.
- It was named the "Silver Ghost" due to its silver-painted chassis and engine, and for its ghost-like quietness and smoothness.
- Cultural Impact:
- The Silver Ghost became a symbol of prestige and luxury, favored by royalty, aristocrats, and wealthy individuals worldwide.
- It set new standards for automotive engineering and craftsmanship, influencing the design of luxury cars for decades to come.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1909 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost Roi Des Belges in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.