Lot details
Registration No: 379 HYV
Chassis No: GZU39
Mot Expiry: Exempt

A logical progression from Rolls-Royce's first 'owner driver' model, the 20hp, the 20/25hp was introduced in 1929. Initially almost identical to its forebear, the newcomer enjoyed a greater turn of outright speed (up to 75mph depending on the type of bodywork fitted), notably superior acceleration and improved economy thanks to an enlarged 3,669cc version of the company's proven OHV straight-six engine. Fed by a single Rolls-Royce carburettor and carrying both magneto and coil ignition, the super-smooth powerplant was mounted in unit with a four-speed manual gearbox - this was operated via a traditional right-hand change and featured synchromesh on the top two ratios from 1932 onwards. Capable of supporting a wide variety of coachwork to personal taste, the 20/25hp's substantial ladder frame chassis was equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, four-wheel drum brakes and a mechanical servo. Progressively developed, the Rolls-Royce 20/25hp remained in production until 1936, by which time some 3,827 are thought to have been sold, making it the company's best-selling model between the wars. Autocar magazine noted that it had 'great refinement of power, and a gentleness and quietness in doing its work, which makes results deceptive'.

This extremely striking Tourer hails from 1933 but, was apparently rebodied in 1986 by Horsefields of Halifax, based on a barrel-sided Barker design. The coachwork and wire wheels are resplendent in Cream that's teamed with a 'wonderfully mellowed' Red button-leather interior. The vendor presently views the coachwork, paintwork, interior trim, six-cylinder engine and four-speed manual transmission as all being in 'good' order. He informs us that the Rolls has remained unused for the last three years and, although on the button, would arguably benefit from a general checkover and service before being pressed into regular use. He is selling the motorcar complete with original owners' handbook and history file with a selection of old MOTs etc.