1932 Rolls-Royce 20/25hp All-Weather Convertible

Lot details
Registration No: GY 3910
Chassis No: GAU 34
Mot Expiry: Sept 2007

Launched in 1929, the 20/25 followed established 'small' Rolls-Royce practice in that it was conceived and built to the same exacting standards as its larger Phantom II stablemate. Developed more or less side-by-side the two models shared improvements introduced during their respective series including thermostatically controlled radiator shutters and pedal operated chassis lubrication. Although, based around the same leaf-sprung, drum braked chassis design as its 20hp predecessor, the 20/25 enjoyed notably sharper acceleration, a higher top speed and better fuel economy thanks to its enlarged 3669cc, straight-six OHV engine. Available with synchromesh on third and fourth gear from 1932 onwards, the 20/25 quickly drew praise form the contemporary press, Autocar noting that it had "great refinement of power, and a gentleness and quietness in doing its work, which makes results deceptive". Unlike its 25/30 successor, the 20/25 remained true to founder Henry Royce's perfectionist principles and abhorrence of bought-in components.
Finished in black with beige leather upholstery, this particular example retains its original Allweather four-door convertible coachwork by T.H. Gill & Company of Paddington, London. As rare as it is handsome (Gill ceased trading in 1935), 'GY 3910' was supplied new to H. Ferguson Esq. Reputedly featured in the September 23rd 1932 issue of Autocar magazine (as well as being referenced by various marque books), the car enjoys better weather protection than many of its 'open' contemporaries. Extensively restored to a high standard (including much work at the hands of Kearsley based specialist Bowling Ryan Ltd), it sports a new hood (complete with West of England cloth headlining), centre-mounted spotlight, repolished interior woodwork, scuttle vents, discreet indicators and Jack Barclay sill plaque. Running well upon a recent inspection, 'GY 3910' appears to be in very good overall condition. Riding on black painted wire wheels and showing an unwarranted 95,121 miles on its odometer, this stunning Rolls-Royce 20/25 is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 2007.