This 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost serial #390XH, is one of the most opulent Rolls-Royces. The Riviera design was considered the epitome of Brewster coachwork. Fine carriage lamps are mounted behind the mahogany trimmed chauffeurs compartment while the passenger compartment is upholstered in tan broadcloth embellished with and elaborate petit-point design. All hardware is gold plated and the wood garnish moldings are inlaid in a floral marquestry pattern of rare woods handcrafted in Venice, Italy by order of the original owner. The car was restored in the late 1960s and was part of the Dr Earl Heath collection for many years.
Design and Features
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Engine: The 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is powered by a 7.4-liter (7,428 cc) inline six-cylinder engine. This engine produced around 80 horsepower, which was quite powerful for its time. The engine is renowned for its smooth and quiet operation, earning the Silver Ghost the nickname "the best car in the world."
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Chassis and Suspension: The Silver Ghost features a robust and durable chassis, known for its stability and comfort. The suspension system includes semi-elliptical leaf springs on both the front and rear, providing a smooth and refined ride. The car’s engineering focused on reliability and longevity, which contributed to its reputation for outstanding quality.
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Bodywork: Rolls-Royce provided the chassis and mechanical components, while the bodywork was typically custom-built by renowned coachbuilders such as Barker, Hooper, and Park Ward. This resulted in a wide variety of body styles, including limousines, tourers, and convertibles, each tailored to the specific desires of the owner.
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Interior: The interior of the Silver Ghost is opulently appointed, featuring the finest materials available at the time. Leather upholstery, rich wood veneers, and intricate detailing were standard. The interior design emphasized comfort and luxury, with attention to every detail to ensure an exceptional experience for both the driver and passengers.
Historical Significance
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Technological Innovation: The Silver Ghost introduced several technological advancements, including the use of aluminum for the engine crankcase and transmission housing, which reduced weight and improved performance. The meticulous engineering and build quality set new benchmarks for the automotive industry.
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Cultural Icon: The Silver Ghost became a symbol of wealth, luxury, and refinement. It was favored by royalty, heads of state, and wealthy individuals around the world, enhancing its status as the epitome of automotive excellence.
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Longevity: The Silver Ghost’s reputation for durability and reliability is legendary. Many examples of the Silver Ghost have survived to this day, a testament to the car’s exceptional build quality and engineering.
Collectibility
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Rarity: While the Silver Ghost was produced from 1907 to 1926, the 1925 models are part of the later series, which are particularly prized for their refined engineering and luxurious appointments. Each car was custom-built, making every Silver Ghost unique and highly collectible.
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Value: The 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost commands high prices in the collector car market due to its historical significance, rarity, and enduring appeal. Well-preserved examples, especially those with documented histories and original coachwork, can fetch significant sums at auctions.
Legacy
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Engineering Excellence: The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is often regarded as one of the greatest automobiles ever built. Its engineering excellence, combined with its luxurious design, set new standards for the automotive industry and established Rolls-Royce as a premier luxury car manufacturer.
You may purchase a print of the 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost in our dElegance 2012 online gallery.
