1927 Rolls-Royce 20hp Three-Position Cabriolet by Hooper

Registration No: YV 4738
Chassis No: GRJ 51
MOT: Exempt

• Exceptionally rare example of a three-position cabriolet by Hooper
• Accompanied by a substantial history file detailing much expenditure and use on rallies, etc.
• On offer by the family of the late owner

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 which time 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.

Carrying sumptuous three-position cabriolet bodywork by Hooper, chassis GRJ51 was originally owned by Sir George August Sutton, Bt. (1869-1947), who in 1927 became managing director of Associated Newspapers Ltd. after a stint as chairman of Amalgamated Press, and who kept addresses at Northcliffe House, London EC, and Oxford Lodge, Wimbledon Common. In 1930, the Rolls-Royce passed to Miss Lilian Davies of Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC. Its later history is unknown until it was reimported into Britain from the American state of Maine by the Real Car Co. in 2005. The next year, it was bought by the late owner, a respected Rolls-Royce enthusiast and collector.

As with all his cars, the owner enjoyed the 20hp on Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club rallies, while spending generously on maintenance and upkeep. In 2008, new Firestone tyres were bought and a new exhaust manifold was fitted, with repairs made to the silencer. An overdrive kit was purchased from Fiennes Restoration in 2016, and Fiennes subsequently performed mechanical work totalling around £6000. The speedometer was repaired in 2019 and regular services were completed up to 2020.

Clearly the beneficiary of some older refurbishment, GRJ51 still presents beautifully. The all-weather body includes occasional seats and lots of neat fittings. Sold with a large history file including copies of the Rolls-Royce build sheets, numerous invoices, old MOTs and copy of the 20hp owner’s handbook, GRJ51 may require light recommissioning but is otherwise an enviable specimen of a vintage Rolls-Royce.

PLEASE NOTE: The images of this lot are vendor-supplied and a better quality set is due to be taken and uploaded prior to the sale. Any enquiries regarding the condition of this car in advance of this can be made to the consigning specialist.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430