Lot details
Registration No: DLR 470
Chassis No: GGM41
Mot Expiry: Jan 2011

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 Superseded by the Wraith in 1938 after just 1,201 had been made, the 25/30hp remains one of the rarest pre-WW2 Rolls-Royce variants.

H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "This particular car, chassis number GGM 41, with an elegant Park Ward swept back body has matured well. Originally registered in Hampshire, it has spent most of its life in Kent and was for the last twenty years owned as part of a collection making occasional trips for local weddings. Pictures of it in this role are included among the accompanying documents. It has been well serviced and the beautifully crafted engine runs like clockwork with the correct oil pressure and almost silently. The servo assisted brakes are fine in modern traffic and the steering box was overhauled giving it light handling. The whole car is a delight to drive. The aluminium bodywork is good with some evidence of its age here and there. The interior has been refurbished in soft dark brown leather. The sunroof is sealed, but its operation could be easily renewed. All the instruments function, even the clock after 74 years. The beautifully illustrated and bound 25/30 Handbook is included. It is serviced, MOT tested until January 2011 and ready to be used over the Summer or kept as an investment".