Lot details Registration No: PGY 339 Chassis No: SUJ22 Mot Expiry: Sept 2007
Although, the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn and Bentley MKVI were both production ready in 1946, the Crewe concern made an eleventh hour decision to stagger their launch timetables. Unsure whether the Standard Steel Saloon coachwork that the pair wore would dilute its core values in the eyes of potential purchasers, Rolls-Royce did not introduce the Silver Dawn until 1949 and even then only as an export model. Encouraged by US sales and an increasing number of UK enquiries, the manufacturer finally sanctioned a home market version in 1953. Based around a massive cruciform-braced, box-section chassis equipped with coil-sprung independent front suspension and servo-assisted drum brakes, the Silver Dawn proved an engaging drive. Updated in line with its Bentley sibling, it received the 'big-bore' 4566cc straight-six engine in 1951 (up from 4257cc) and 'big boot' restyle (which encompassed the boot, back wings and rear suspension etc) a year or so later. Utilising a single Zenith carburettor in place of its stablemate's twin SUs, the owner-driver saloon wore a trademark temple-esque radiator grille and re-profiled bonnet. Despite, dispelling Rolls-Royce's fears that its customers would shy away from non-coachbuilt cars, the Silver Dawn is among the marque's rarest post-WW2 models with production between 1949 and 1955 thought to total just 761 cars (the vast majority of which were left-hand drive).
Finished in Brewster Black over Mistletoe Gold with Light Beige leather upholstery, this particular right-hand drive example is described by the vendor as being in "immaculate condition throughout". Said to have had "only four previous owners, the last for sixteen years", 'PGY 339' is fitted with the desirable 4566cc engine allied to four-speed automatic transmission. Further benefiting from a silver bud vase, picnic tables and twin exhausts, it apparently retains "all large / small tools and ancillary equipment". Reportedly a "superb driver", the Silver Dawn rides on "as new" tyres. A rare car that is stated to have covered just 96,433 miles from new, this stylish Rolls-Royce is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 7th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until December 2007.
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