1923 Rolls-Royce 20hp Coupe with Dickey Seat
Delivered new to New Zealand

Registration No: SV 4450
Chassis No: 79A8
MOT: Exempt

• Very early 20hp
• Recorded in ''The Rolls-Royce Twenty'' by John Fasal
• Originally delivered to New Zealand with a Johnson & Smith Tourer body
• Coachwork believed to be a one-off, presumably fitted in New Zealand in the 1930's
• Marchal headlamps

Unveiled in 1922, the 20hp was a second string to the Rolls-Royce bow – a shorter, more economical sibling to the Silver Ghost which broadened the marque’s reach to span both the very rich and seriously wealthy. Instantly distinguished by its horizontal radiator shutters, the newcomer was constructed around a ladder-frame chassis of 129 inch wheelbase. Power came from a 3,127cc straight-six, OHV monobloc engine mated to a three-speed manual gearbox. Suspension was by semi-elliptic leaf springs all-round. Braking was initially on the rear wheels alone, while steering was by worm and nut. Progressively updated to feature a four-speed gearbox and servo-assisted all-wheel braking, the ‘baby’ Rolls remained in production until 1929, by when some 2,885 examples had vacated the company’s Derby factory. Lighter and more responsive than the Silver Ghost, the 20hp was capable of exceeding 60mph.

Chassis 79A8 was originally delivered to New Zealand, featuring Johnson & Smith tourer coachwork, as documented in John Fasal's comprehensive reference work, 'The Rolls-Royce Twenty.' It remained in the hands of its second owner in New Zealand until the 1950s when it was then exported to the United States. For nearly 31 years, it was stored in a dry environment. At some point during its storied history, this elegant vehicle received a striking two-seat Coupé-with-dickey coachwork, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Following its storage period, a comprehensive restoration was undertaken in America, amounting to approximately $40,000. Notably, the car was owned by the esteemed enthusiast and collector, G Wales. Presented in a distinctive livery, the current exterior showcases three shades of Green, accentuated by a polished alloy bonnet. The car features a unique apron enclosing the chassis irons to the front, twin side-mounts, Marchal headlamps, and a running board-mounted tool box, creating an overall captivating effect. Inside, the interior is adorned with button-back Tan leather upholstery, complemented by a matching dickey in fabric and Dark Green carpets. Thoughtful storage compartments are neatly fitted behind the seat. Noteworthy additional features include an inset fabric panel on the roof, a fire extinguisher installed inside, an oil can situated beneath the bonnet, an assortment of tools, and a small metal ornamental bee adorning the bonnet. The current vendor acquired this Rolls-Royce Twenty in 2012 and since then, it has been sparingly used and well cared for. The car comes with a copy of the chassis cards, a large file of invoices and a photographic record of the restoration.

For more information, please contact:
Julian Pinkster
julian.pinkster@handh.co.uk
07889 223 904