1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

As a 1965 example, the auction car is from the penultimate year of Silver Cloud production, a shift also marked by the sunset of traditional body-on-chassis construction for regular production Rolls Royces. As far as transitional models go, the auction car’s credentials are particularly impressive.

Precise production numbers are tricky to come by, but most sources seem to agree that only ~1,000 left-hand drive, standard wheelbase SCIII’s were built prior to the end of production in 1966.

Silver Cloud III styling was very much similar to that of the preceding series I and II cars, excluding of course an entirely new quad headlight nose treatment. Note the yellow, French-style lamp lenses and modern side mirrors, the latter of which may have been fitted by request during a factory refresh.

The cabin looks to appear largely original, however a few notable changes include the aftermarket steering wheel (apparently a high-quality Moto-Lita item) and a remote mirror adjustment switch fitted to the driver’s door panel.

Power windows and a/c appear to have been fitted from new, as does the period Blaupunkt radio seen in the front half of the cabin–a later Pioneer cassette deck resides on the rear parcel shelf.

Though introduced years earlier in 1959, a V8-powered Rolls-Royce was still a novel concept when the auction car was built, and this is underscored by the engine’s tight fit–the space beneath its piano-hinged lid was clearly designed with a straight-six in mind.

The need to remove a wheel to access spark plugs is a small concession for substantial improvements in power and torque over Series I cars, however, and soon even RR purists were won over by the V8. It was last seen in twin-turbo form powering the magnificent 2020 Bentley Mulsanne.

The auction car is sold with limited documentation.

With something approaching 220 hp, a world-class automatic transmission, and a legendarily smooth, quiet cabin, these late production Silver Clouds were spectacularly powerful, refined cars, and the auction example was among the very last standard production Rolls-Royces ever built atop a separate chassis.

Estimated $20,000 - $30,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.