Lot details Registration No: DGU 1 Chassis No: GTL76 Mot Expiry: May 2007
The penultimate development of Rolls-Royce's original 'owner-driver' orientated line that had begun with the 20hp some fourteen years earlier, the 25/30hp was introduced in 1936. Still utilising a cross-braced ladder-frame chassis equipped with semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and servo-assisted four-wheel drum brakes, the passage of time had added such refinements as adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers (complete with steering wheel mounted controls) and a centralised lubrication system. Powered by a 4257cc OHV straight-six engine mated to four-speed manual transmission, the 25/30hp was intended to traverse a new generation of better surfaced, faster roads. Sufficiently powerful to accommodate the whims of almost any coachbuilder, most were capable of a reputed 80mph. Superseded by the Wraith in 1938 after just 1,201 had been made, the 25/30hp remains one of the rarest pre-WW2 Rolls-Royce variants.
Finished in burgundy with tan leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Bodied as a Sedanca de Ville by renowned coachbuilder H.J. Mulliner, chassis GTL 76 was supplied new to J.O. Lawson-Johnson Esq. Retaining its original coachwork some seven decades later, the Rolls-Royce is said to have been restored at a cost of "approximately £30,000 excluding labour and time" since entering the current ownership fifteen years ago. Luxuriously trimmed, the rear passenger compartment boasts a wind-down division, small table, occasional seats, re-polished wood veneers, West of England cloth headlining (incorporating discreetly fitted extra lights) and burgundy carpets, while those up front are protected from the elements by a new tonneau roof section. Reportedly treated to an engine rebuild, rewire, brake system overhaul (relined drums, rejuvenated servo), stainless exhaust and new petrol tank as part of its refurbishment, chassis GTL 76 rides on wire wheels shod with Ace wheel disc covers. An imposing motorcar - even by Rolls-Royce standards - 'DGU 1' is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 26th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until April 2007.
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